Platinum is a highly prized white metal. Here are 10 interesting facts about this element:
- The name for the element, platinum, comes from the Spanish word, platina, which means “little silver”.
- Because platinum exists in pure native form, it has been known to mankind for a very long time. There is evidence that platinum was known to the pre-Columbian natives.
- Platinum does not oxidize at any temperature and is unaffected by most acids. Its resistance to corrosion makes it a good choice for jewelry and to make mass standards.
- Platinum is an important catalyst for chemical reactions, such as petroleum cracking, for catalytic converters in vehicles, and for converting methyl alcohol into formaldehde. The element can absorb considerable volumes of hydrogen.
- Platinum is considered non-toxic. It is safe for use in jewelry, is used in dental crowns, and has value as an anti-tumor agent.
- Like gold and silver, platinum is considered a precious metal. It is used in currency and investment.
- The percentage of platinum found in meteorites and Moon rocks is higher than the percentage found on Earth.
- Platinum is a rare metal. The pure element may be found in certain alluvial deposits. The element may be extracted during the refining of copper-nickel ores.
- Platinum alloyed with cobalt can be used to make strong permanent magnets.
- Platinum displays many properties of metals. It is silver-gray in color, shiny, ductile, malleable, and dense.