Hello and welcome to Teach Kids Chemistry! Today, we will be discussing one of the most abundant elements on Earth – aluminum. Aluminum is a versatile metal that is used in a variety of everyday objects, from soda cans to airplanes. In this overview, we will explore the properties and uses of aluminum, as well as its place in the periodic table. So, let’s dive in and discover the wonders of aluminum!
The Periodic Element Aluminum Overview
Aluminum is a chemical element with the symbol Al and atomic number 13. It has an atomic mass of 26.98 u. Aluminum has 13 protons, 13 electrons, and usually 14 neutrons. It is a member of the boron group of chemical elements and is located in period 3 and group 13 of the periodic table. Aluminum is a silvery-white, soft, nonmagnetic, ductile metal. It is the third most abundant element in the Earth’s crust, after oxygen and silicon.Aluminum is a metal with an electronegativity of 1.61. It has a specific heat capacity of 0.90 J/g·K, a melting point of 660.32°C (1220.58°F), a boiling point of 2519°C (4566°F), and a density of 2.70 g/cm³. It is a good conductor of heat and electricity, and is commonly used in the construction of aircraft, automobiles, and other transportation vehicles. Aluminum is also used in packaging, cooking utensils, and in the production of various alloys.
Everyday objects that contain the periodic element aluminum?
There are many everyday objects that contain chemicals or compounds that can be used to teach chemistry concepts. For example, water is a compound made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom, and can be used to teach about chemical formulas and the properties of different elements. Salt, which is made up of sodium and chlorine, can be used to teach about ionic bonding and the properties of salts. Baking soda, which is sodium bicarbonate, can be used to teach about chemical reactions and the properties of acids and bases. Other examples include vinegar, which is acetic acid, and aspirin, which is acetylsalicylic acid. By using everyday objects that contain chemicals, students can learn about chemistry concepts in a simple and relatable way.
Differences in the periodic element aluminum across states of matter
The state of an element can vary greatly depending on its temperature and pressure. At standard temperature and pressure (STP), most elements are either solids or gases. Solids have a fixed shape and volume, while gases have neither. As temperature and pressure increase, some solids can become liquids, which have a fixed volume but take the shape of their container. As temperature and pressure continue to increase, some liquids can become gases, which have neither a fixed shape nor volume. At extremely high temperatures and pressures, some gases can become plasmas, which are highly ionized and conductive. Plasmas are often found in stars and lightning bolts, and have unique properties such as the ability to emit light.
Is the periodic element aluminum dangerous or radioactive?
No, aluminum is not dangerous or radioactive. It is a common metal that is widely used in everyday products such as foil, cans, and cookware. It is also used in construction materials, transportation, and electronics. Aluminum is not considered toxic and is generally safe for humans to handle and use. However, it is important to note that inhaling aluminum dust or fumes can be harmful to the lungs, so proper safety precautions should be taken when working with aluminum in industrial settings.
Is the periodic element aluminum rare and expensive?
No, aluminum is not a rare or expensive element. In fact, it is the most abundant metal in the Earth’s crust and the third most abundant element overall. It is widely used in various industries due to its low density, high strength, and corrosion resistance. Aluminum is also highly recyclable, making it a sustainable choice for many applications. Therefore, it is a common and affordable element that is readily available for use in various products and processes.
Learn about all the elements with a periodic table!