The Need-To-Know
about Thallium
Background Info.
Group-13
Melting point-304 oC, 579 oF, 577 K
Period-6
Boiling point-1473 oC, 2683 oF, 1746 K
Block-p
Density (g cm-3)-11.8
Atomic number-81
Relative atomic mass-204.38
State at 20°C-Solid
Natural and Synthetic uses.
Thallium can be found in natural soils and in water springs. It can also be found in special class and low-tempt. thermometers.
Heavy Metal?
It has since been applied to any other similarly toxic metal, or metalloid such as arsenic, regardless of density. Commonly encountered heavy metals are chromium, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, arsenic, selenium, silver, cadmium, antimony, mercury, thallium and lead.
Coming in contact..
Thallium can come into contact with the with the body through ingesting soil and infected drinking water.
Harmful or Nah?
Thallium is very harmful. In high doses it can kill someone immediately.
What effects does this element have on the environment?
There has been no significant contamination of the environment by Thallium, but it has negative effects on plants, such as color changes in leaves and growth declines.
CASE STUDY
New Jersey Woman, Tianle Li of Monroe, a former chemist was sentenced to life in prision for murdering her husband, by feeding him Thallium after he sought out divorce.
What has the element been used for in the past?
In the past Thallium was used as a treatment for syphilis, gonoreah, tuberculosis, and ringworm. It was also used as a depilatory for excess hair. Its use as a household rodencide was banned in the late 1900's
How is this element being used today
Thallium is used for making low-melting special glass for highly reflective lenses. thallium salts are used as reagants in chemical research.
How to protect yourself?
Check out manufactures of electronics, low temperature thermometers, optical lenses, and imitation precious jewels.