Tungsten Metal (W) Element
Tungsten is a chemical element with the symbol W and atomic number 74. It is a hard, dense, and steel-gray metal that has the highest melting point and tensile strength of all known elements. Tungsten is also known as wolfram, derived from the mineral wolframite, which is a primary ore of the metal.
Here are some key facts about tungsten:
1. Physical Properties: Tungsten has a high melting point of 3,422 degrees Celsius (6,192 degrees Fahrenheit) and a boiling point of around 5,555 degrees Celsius (10,031 degrees Fahrenheit). It is a heavy metal with a density of 19.25 grams per cubic centimeter.
2. Chemical Properties: Tungsten is a transition metal and is resistant to corrosion, making it highly durable. It has excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, and it forms stable compounds with various elements.
3. Applications: Tungsten has numerous industrial applications due to its exceptional properties. It is commonly used in the production of high-speed steel, which is used for cutting tools, drills, and milling machines. Tungsten is also used as an alloying element in the production of superalloys, which are used in aerospace and turbine applications. Additionally, it is used in electrical contacts, filaments for incandescent light bulbs, X-ray tubes, and various electronic devices.
4. Tungsten Carbide: Tungsten carbide is a compound made by combining tungsten and carbon. It is extremely hard and has a wide range of applications, including cutting tools, mining tools, armor-piercing ammunition, and jewelry.
5. Natural Abundance: Tungsten is relatively rare in the Earth's crust, with an average concentration of 1.25 parts per million. China is the largest producer of tungsten, followed by Russia, Canada, and Austria.
6. Health and Safety: Tungsten and its compounds are generally considered to be of low toxicity. However, tungsten dust or fumes, especially in the form of tungsten hexafluoride, can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. It is important to follow proper safety measures when working with tungsten or its compounds.
Tungsten is a critical metal with a wide range of industrial applications. Its unique properties make it valuable in various fields, including manufacturing, electronics, and aerospace.
