Tantalum, a rare metal with atomic number 73, was recently discovered in Sutlej river sand in Punjab by a team from IIT Ropar, led by Dr. Resmi Sebastian
Characteristics
Tantalum is known for its gray color, heaviness, and hardness
Corrosion-Resistance
Tantalum is known for its corrosion resistance, forming a persistent oxide layer when exposed to air, making it almost immune to chemical attack below 150°C
High Melting Point
With an exceptionally high melting point, surpassed only by tungsten and rhenium, tantalum is crucial in applications requiring extreme temperatures
Discovery Date
Tantalum was first discovered in 1802 by Swedish chemist Anders Gustaf Ekenberg, contributing to the understanding of rare elements
Electronic Sector Usage
Tantalum is extensively used in the electronic sector, particularly in capacitors that can store more electricity in smaller sizes with minimal leakage
Substitute for Platinum
Due to its high melting point, tantalum is often used as a cost-effective substitute for platinum in various industrial applications
Diverse Applications
Tantalum finds applications in chemical plants, nuclear power plants, aeroplanes, and missiles, owing to its resistance to chemical reactions and high melting point
Biocompatibility
Tantalum does not react with bodily fluids, making it suitable for medical applications such as surgical equipment and implants like artificial joints
Revolutionizing Technology
Tantalum's role in revolutionizing capacitors and its diverse applications in modern technology showcase its significance in advancing various industries