Rhodium
Rhodium is a member of the iron tripod, and is the 45th element, with an atomic mass
of 102.9055 amu. It was discovered in 1803 by William Wollaston of England. Rh melts at
1962.85 degrees C, and boils at 3696.85 degrees C. It has a density of 12.41 g/cm cubed, and
electron levels of 2-8-18-16-1. Rh's valences are +2, 3, and 4. Pure Rh is very reflective and
corrosion-resistant. It is used as a finish on reflective products, such as mirrors and searchlights.
For use in aircraft turbines, it is alloyed with platinum. It is also used in the manufacture
of nitric acid and hydrogenatio. Rh is silvery-white, and has a higher melting point and lower density
than platinum. It can also be used as a catalyst.
May 20, 1997
Back to my chem page.
Back to my page.