Vanadium

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Vanadium

Vanadium (pronounced /vəˈneɪdiəm/) is a chemical element with the symbol V and atomic number 23. It is a hard, silvery-grey, malleable transition metal. The elemental metal is rarely found in nature, but once isolated artificially, the formation of an oxide layer (passivation) somewhat stabilizes the free metal against further oxidation.

Etymology

The name Vanadium is derived from Vanadis, the old Norse name for the Scandinavian goddess Freyja. The element was discovered in 1801 by the Spanish scientist Andrés Manuel del Río, but it was mistaken as a form of chromium. It was rediscovered in 1830 by Nils Gabriel Sefström who named it after Vanadis because of its many beautifully colored chemical compounds.

Related Terms

  • Transition metal: Vanadium is classified as a transition metal in the periodic table.
  • Oxidation: The process by which vanadium is stabilized after being isolated.
  • Atomic number: The number that represents the number of protons in an atom, in this case, 23 for vanadium.
  • Chemical element: Vanadium is a chemical element represented by the symbol V.
  • Malleable: A term used to describe the physical property of a material that can be manipulated under pressure.

Health Effects

Vanadium has been found to be an essential trace element for some species. In humans, deficiency of vanadium is associated with developmental disabilities, reduced growth, and increased infant mortality. On the other hand, excess intake of vanadium can cause kidney damage and other health problems.

Industrial Uses

Vanadium is used in the production of rust-resistant, spring and high-speed tool steels. It is also used in ceramics, glass, and dyes as well as a chemical catalyst.

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