Gold

Gold is the 79th element on the periodic table and its symbol is Au. Its name comes from the Latin word Aurum, meaning "shining dawn," and earlier from Greek origins. In the Earth's crust, gold is very rare, occurring at only 0.004 parts per million (ppm). Naturally occurring gold is always the isotope Au-197.

Element Information

• Symbol: Au (from Latin: Aurum)
• Atomic Number: 79
• Atomic Mass: Approximately 197 atomic mass units
• Classification: Transition meta

Also Check: Osmosis | Silver | Corrosion

Related Links:  Fluorine | Isomerism | Iodine

Properties of Gold

Gold is highly valued for its unique properties:

• Appearance: It has a shiny, yellow appearance that does not tarnish or corrode over time.
• Density: Gold is one of the densest metals, weighing about 19.3 grams per cubic centimeter.
• Malleability and Ductility: It is extremely malleable and ductile, which means it can be hammered into thin sheets (gold leaf) or drawn into fine wires without breaking.
• Melting Point: It melts at a high temperature of around 1064°C (1947°F).
• Chemical Inertness: Gold is chemically inert, meaning it doesn’t react easily with other substances, contributing to its long-lasting value and use in various applications.

Uses of Gold

Gold finds numerous practical and cultural applications:

• Jewelry: It is most commonly used in jewelry for its beauty, durability, and resistance to tarnishing. It is often alloyed with other metals like silver or copper to enhance its strength.
• Currency and Investment: Throughout history, gold has been used as currency and is a valuable investment asset due to its intrinsic value and stability.
• Electronics: Gold’s excellent electrical conductivity makes it essential in electronics for components such as connectors, switches, and circuit boards.
• Dentistry: Gold alloys are used in dentistry for fillings, crowns, and bridges because of their biocompatibility and durability.
• Medicine: Gold nanoparticles are utilized in medical applications, including diagnostics and potentially in cancer treatment and drug delivery systems.
• Aerospace: It is used in aerospace technology for its reflective properties in spacecraft windows to manage temperature and radiation.
• Decorative Arts: Gold leaf and gold plating are used in decorative arts, architecture, and religious artifacts, showcasing its cultural significance beyond its practical applications.