Chromium
By Tatum Newcomer
Chromium
Chromium is a very fascinating element that we don't even know how important it is. Chromium can be found in many foods that most people eat all the time, like fruits and vegetables. It is also in buildings because it is strong and can withstand weathering and rust.
Discovery
My element was discovered in 1797 by famous chemist: Louis Nicolas Vauquelin who also discovered Beryllium. The name Chromium originated from the Greek word "chroma" which means color. The electron configuration of Chromium is [Ar]3d54s1.
Properties of the Atoms
The atomic number of Chromium is 24. The atomic weight is 51.996. The number of both protons and electrons is 24, but the number of neutrons is 26.
Physical Description and Properties
Chromium comes from the mineral: Chromite, which 99% of it is found in Zimbabwe and Southern Africa. Chromium is a shiny and lustrous. IT is also very hard and brittle. It is a silver color, and it can be found attached to quartz. It has a melting point of 1,907 degrees celsius and the boiling point is 2,672 degrees celsius. The density is 7.19 when it's at 20 degrees celsius. It is a solid when it is found in nature.
Uses
There are many uses for Chromium such as being used in stainless steel because it's very resistant to corrosion. It is also used to make bumpers and hubcaps on cars, as well as bicycles for the same reason. It is used so much because it is a common element that is found all over the surface of South Africa in a from called Chromite, that is found mostly found embedded in quartz.
Fun Facts
Some fun facts about Chromium are: Chromium is found in many things in our daily life such as broccoli. Chromium is also the 9th most abundant element found in the compounds in Earth's crust. Chromium is also an important part of our bodies. It is found in our stomach's to help us to digest food. It is also found in many foods such as yeast, meat, potatoes, fruits, vegetables spices, cereals, and cheese. Chromium can also be found in emeralds and paint.