Beryllium

Beryllium, the fourth element in the periodic table, is my favorite element and is also the first of the alkaline earth metals. It has an atomic mass of 9.01218, a density of 1.85 g/cm cubed, and its electron levels are simply 2-2. It, like all of the alkaline earths, has a valence of +2. It melts at 1286.85 degrees C, and boils at 2969.85 degrees C. It was discovered in 1828 by Friedrich Woller of Germany and A. A. Bussy of France. Beryllium is very unique in that it is the only element that is an excellent conductor of heat, yet a poor conductor of electricity. Be and its compounds are carcinogenic, and will cause bronchitis or pneumonia shortly after high exposure. Be, found in the mineral beryl, is a hard, brittle, gray/white metal. It is used in the manufacture of electrical components, as well as in chemicals, ceramics, and x-ray tubes.

Beryllium's electron configuration is 1s²2s².

Beryllium's electronegativity is 1.57.

May 18, 1997, updated August 7, 1998

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