Gallium (Ga) Fun Facts

31 Ga
Superhero Identity

"The Meltdown, a tricky hero who can liquefy in the palm of a hand to escape any situation."

The true essence of Gallium (Ga) on the molecular frontier.

Appearance

Gallium is a soft, silvery-blue metal that is liquid near room temperature.

Everyday Connection

Gallium is found in the blue/violet LEDs in electronic displays.

In Pop Culture

Gallium is famous for spoons that melt in hot tea � a classic science prank seen in many online videos.

Did You Know?

1

It is famous for its low melting point of 29.76 °C (85.58 °F), which means it will melt into a silvery liquid in your hand.

2

Despite its low melting point, it has a very high boiling point of 2400 °C (4352 °F), giving it one of the largest liquid ranges of any metal.

3

Gallium has the unusual property of expanding when it freezes, similar to water.

4

Spoons made of gallium will dramatically melt and disappear when used to stir a hot drink, making for a popular science prank.

5

Gallium arsenide (GaAs) is a crucial semiconductor used in high-frequency electronics, like the circuits in cell phones.