Platinum
Platinum, #78 on the periodic table, precedes gold. It has an atomic mass of 195.09 amu,
a specific gravity of 21.45, valences of +4 and +2, and its electron levels are
2-8-18-32-16-2. It is a member of the iron triad, and was discovered in 1557 by Julius
Scaglier of Italy. It melts at 1768.95 degrees C, and boils at 3826.85 degrees C.
Pt is rare and valuable, and is used to break down petroleum to increase octane
levels in gasoline. It is commonly used as a catalyst, and in the synthesis of
nitric and acetic acid. When pure, Pt is a beautiful silvery-white metal, and does not
oxidize. Pt will corrode with the halogens (F, Cl, Br, I, At) along with cyanides,
sulfur, and alkali metals. Like gold, Pt is insoluble in hydrochloric acid and
nitric acid, yet dissolves in aqua regia, a solution of the two acids.
May 19, 1997
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