Niobium (Nb)

Niobium is a soft, ductile metal used in superconducting magnets and high-strength steel alloys.

Niobium disc anodizing through a rainbow of colors as voltage is applied — Video: Niobium disc anodizing through a rainbow of colors as voltage is applied

Properties of Niobium

Atomic number: 41
Category: Transition Metal
Atomic mass: 92.906 u
Electron configuration: [Kr] 4d⁴ 5s¹
Melting point: 2750 K (2476.85 °C)
Boiling point: 5017 K (4743.85 °C)
Density: 8.57 g/cm³
Electronegativity (Pauling): 1.6
Appearance: Gray metallic, bluish when oxidized
Discovered by: Charles Hatchett (1801)

Facts about Niobium

Niobium is named after Niobe from Greek mythology, daughter of Tantalus!
The superconducting magnets in MRI machines use niobium!
Niobium turns beautiful iridescent colors when heated!
Brazil produces about 90% of the world's niobium!

Niobium videos

Niobium disc anodizing through a rainbow of colors as voltage is applied

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