Wikijunior:The Elements/Scandium

Shows the position of Scandium on the periodic chart.
Scandium's symbol on the Periodic Table

What does it look, feel, or taste like?

Scandium crystals and cube
Mallet and iron

Scandium is a soft metal with a silvery appearance. It develops a slightly yellowish or pinkish cast when oxidized by air.

How was it discovered?

The element scandium was discovered because an element that was previously unknown was shown in Mendeleev's periodic table. Lars Fredrik Nilson specifically looked for it and found it in 1879.

What are its uses?

It is used in mercury vapor lamps.

Is it dangerous?

Scandium powder burns easily.

  • flammable
    flammable
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