Classification of Tungsten
Elemental Category
Tungsten is classified as a transition metal. It belongs to Group 6 and Period 6 of the periodic table.
State at Room Temperature
At standard room temperature (approximately 20-25 °C), Tungsten exists as a solid.
Appearance and Texture
Color
Tungsten typically exhibits a lustrous, silvery-white to grayish-white appearance when polished. Its metallic sheen is quite distinct.
Texture and Hardness
In its pure form, Tungsten is noted for its exceptional hardness and brittleness, especially at room temperature. However, when highly purified, it can be ductile and malleable, allowing it to be drawn into fine wires, a property essential for its application in incandescent light bulb filaments, which are widely manufactured and used across India. The surface generally feels smooth, typical of a metal, but its inherent hardness contributes to its robust nature.
Thermal Properties
Melting Point
Tungsten possesses the highest melting point of all pure metals. Its melting point is approximately 3422 °C. This characteristic makes it suitable for high-temperature applications.
Boiling Point
The boiling point of Tungsten is also exceptionally high, reaching approximately 5930 °C. This further underscores its thermal stability and resistance to vaporization at extreme temperatures.