Classification of Zirconium
Zirconium (Zr) is categorized as a transition metal. It belongs to Group 4 and Period 5 of the periodic table, demonstrating typical metallic characteristics.
Key Physical Properties
Appearance and State
At standard room temperature and pressure, Zirconium exists as a solid. It presents a distinctive silvery-white, lustrous appearance, akin to polished steel. While impure forms can be hard and brittle, highly pure Zirconium is noted for its malleability and ductility, allowing it to be drawn into wires or hammered into sheets.
Zirconium is found naturally in minerals, primarily zircon (zirconium silicate, ZrSiO₄). These minerals are often mined from heavy mineral sands, such as those found along the coastlines of Kerala and Tamil Nadu in India, where beach sands are rich in various valuable minerals, including those containing Zirconium.
Thermal Properties
Zirconium possesses high melting and boiling points, indicative of strong metallic bonding within its structure.
- Melting Point: Approximately 1855 °C
- Boiling Point: Approximately 4377 °C