Which element has the largest atomic radius?
Quick Answer
The element that has the largest atomic radius is cesium. It has an atomic radius of 298 pm, or picometers. An alkali metal, cesium is so active that it instantly explodes if dropped into cold water. It's also one of the few metals that becomes a liquid at close to room temperature. Its melting point is 83.19 degrees Fahrenheit.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
One of cesium's most important functions is as the basis for the atomic clock. Cesium is used to calculate the length of a second. This is done by beaming a signal of a certain frequency through isolated cesium atoms.
Cesium is also used as a "getter," which means that it will remove any trace of oxygen or water from a vacuum tube. It's also used in oil well drilling to clear any leftover chips of rock. Cesium has also been used to sterilize surgical equipment, food and sewage.
Cesium is a fairly rare element on earth, but it's more abundant than silver, mercury or even tin. It's most often found in pegmatite ores. One of the richest sources of this ore is in Manitoba, Canada.
The atomic number of cesium is 55. Its atomic weight is 132.90545, and its density is 1.879.
Learn more about ChemistryRelated Questions
-
Q:
What are examples of combustible materials?
A: Some combustible materials include fuel oil, paint, kerosene, paints, cesium, magnesium, aluminum powder, calcium, sawdust, plastic dust, coal, flour and p... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Which one of the atoms has the largest radius?
A: As of 2014, the atom on the periodic table of elements with the largest known radius is cesium, which has a radius of 298 picometers. For comparison, heliu... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is equal to the number of protons in an atom?
A: Each atom contains an equal number of protons and electrons; these particles will be equal in value to an element's atomic number. For example, the element... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Where does magnesium come from?
A: Magnesium is found in mineral deposits such as dolomite and magnesite, and it is an abundant element in the earth’s crust. It does not occur naturally as a... Full Answer >Filed Under:
