Titanium
Definition and meaning of Titanium in chemistry.
Titanium is a chemical element with the symbol Ti and atomic number 22. It is a lustrous transition metal characterized by a silver color, low density, and high strength, and it is highly resistant to corrosion in seawater, aqua regia, and chlorine.
In more detail
Titanium is located in group 4 of the periodic table and is known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio. As a highly reactive metal, it readily forms a passive, protective oxide coating (TiO2) upon exposure to air, which protects the bulk metal from further oxidation and provides its exceptional corrosion resistance. In nature, it primarily occurs in minerals such as rutile and ilmenite, which are widely distributed in the Earth's crust and lithosphere. The metal exhibits dimorphism, existing in a hexagonal close-packed alpha form at room temperature that transitions to a body-centered cubic beta form at 882 degrees Celsius. Chemically, it most commonly exhibits an oxidation state of +4, though +3 and +2 compounds are also known. Due to its biocompatibility and non-toxic nature, it does not provoke an immune response, making it exceptionally useful in biological environments. Furthermore, titanium is frequently alloyed with aluminum and vanadium to enhance its mechanical properties for demanding applications.
Key facts
| Field | General Chemistry |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Ti |
| Atomic number | 22 |
| Atomic mass | 47.867 u |
| Category | Transition Metal |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Melting point | 1668 °C |
| Boiling point | 3287 °C |
| Year discovered | 1791 |
Titanium is heavily utilized in the aerospace industry to manufacture aircraft frames and engine components due to its ability to withstand extreme temperatures while remaining relatively light.
Frequently asked questions
Why is titanium used in medical implants?
Titanium is used in medical implants because it is highly biocompatible, meaning it is not rejected by the body, and it can osseointegrate, allowing bone to grow directly into the implant.
How is titanium extracted from its ores?
Titanium is typically extracted using the Kroll process, which involves treating the ore with chlorine gas to produce titanium tetrachloride, followed by reduction with magnesium.