⚛️ Atomic Structure of Indium
Indium has forty-nine protons, sixty-six neutrons (in its most common isotope, Indium-115), and forty-nine electrons, with three in its outer shell.
- 🟢 Protons: 49
- 🔴 Neutrons: 66 (Most common isotope, Indium-115)
- 🟡 Electrons: 49
💡 Did you know? Indium emits a high-pitched "cry" when bent due to its crystal structure!
🔬 Indium Properties
Indium is soft, malleable, and ductile. It melts at 156.6°C (313.9°F), low for a metal, and sticks to surfaces when pressed.
🧬 How Was Indium Discovered?
In 1863, German chemists Ferdinand Reich and Hieronymous Theodor Richter identified Indium via spectroscopy in zinc ore, naming it for its indigo spectral line.
⚡ Uses of Indium
- 📱 Tech: Indium tin oxide (ITO) in touchscreens and LEDs.
- 🔩 Alloys: Low-melting solders and bearings.
- 🔬 Semiconductors: In transistors and solar cells.
- 🦾 Mirrors: Reflective coatings.
💡 Fun Facts About Indium
- 🔊 "Screams" when bent, a rare metal cry.
- 🌈 Named for its indigo spectral color.
- 🌍 Mostly mined in China.
- 🧀 So soft you can cut it with a knife.
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
Indium is low-toxicity in solid form but dust or compounds can irritate lungs and skin. Handle with gloves and ventilation; avoid ingestion.