Scandium
Definition and meaning of Scandium in chemistry.
Scandium is a chemical element with the symbol Sc and atomic number 21. It is a soft, silvery-white metallic element and is classified as a transition metal.
In more detail
Located in group 3 of the periodic table, scandium is the first transition metal historically identified, situated strategically between calcium and titanium. It frequently exhibits a stable +3 oxidation state, reliably forming colorless chemical compounds that share profound chemical similarities with yttrium and the heavier lanthanides, which ultimately leads to its frequent classification as a rare-earth element. Scandium is actually relatively widespread throughout the Earth's crust but almost never occurs in concentrated geological ores, typically found merely in trace amounts within rare minerals like thortveitite and euxenite. The purified metal slowly develops a distinct yellowish or pinkish cast when exposed to atmospheric air due to the gradual formation of a passivation oxide layer. It reacts quite readily with standard acids and slowly dissolves in pure water to release hydrogen gas. Despite its remarkable lightness and exceptionally high melting point, its severe global scarcity and intensely difficult extraction processes heavily limit its widespread commercial and industrial application.
Key facts
| Field | General Chemistry |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Sc |
| Atomic number | 21 |
| Atomic mass | 44.956 u |
| Category | Transition Metal |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Melting point | 1541 °C (2806 °F) |
| Boiling point | 2836 °C (5137 °F) |
| Year discovered | 1879 |
Scandium is strategically alloyed with aluminum to create high-strength, incredibly lightweight metallic materials utilized heavily in modern aerospace components and premium sports equipment like bicycle frames.
Frequently asked questions
Is scandium traditionally considered a rare-earth metal?
Yes, scandium is often officially grouped with the rare-earth elements because it naturally occurs in the exact same mineral deposits and shares remarkably similar chemical properties.
Why are commercial scandium products so incredibly expensive?
Scandium is rarely ever found in concentrated natural ores and is extremely difficult to isolate biochemically, making the extraction and refining processes highly complex and costly.