Polonium was named after Poland.  We think it sounds a bit like it was named after Polo, the sport.   next element                            previous element

    Bismuth is used in a variety of paint pigments (as is titanium and vanadium). next element                           previous element

    Lead is used in car batteries.  The reaction: 2 PbSO4(s) + 2 H2O(l) –> Pb(s) + PbO2(s) + 2 H2SO4(aq) generates about 2 Volts.  Six cells that run this reaction are combined to make a 12 Volt car battery.  The symbol for lead, Pb, comes from its Latin name, Plumbum.   next element […]

    Thallium is known as the poisoner’s poison; it is quite toxic.  In ionic form, thallium exists as Tl+ or Tl3+.  Tl+ has an ionic radius that is similar to that of K+, an important biological ion; both ions have the same charge.  As a result, Tl+ can mimic K+ in the body, substituting […]

    The symbol for mercury, Hg, comes from its Latin name, “hydragyum”.  Mercury can accumulate in the fatty deposits of fish.  Therefore, diets rich in fish contaminated with Hg can lead to Hg poisoning. next element                       previous element

    Gold is a famous and beautiful golden metal.  The symbol for gold, Au, comes from its Latin name, “aurum”.  It is used to make coins, fine jewelry and other items. next element                          previous element

    Platinum is used in the anti-cancer drug, cisplatin (PtCl2(NH3)2).  Cisplatin binds to DNA, rendering it useless and killing the cell.  Cisplatin was likely administered to Lance Armstrong, perhaps the most famous and infamous bicycle rider of all time, during his battle with cancer.  Note the yellow jersey on the rider.  Platinum, like rhodium, […]

    The density of iridium is 22.56 g/mL, almost as dense as osmium.  While meteorites tend to be rich in iridium, iridium is not found in large quantities on earth.  However, there is a layer of earth called the K-T boundary which is rich in Ir.  Below the K-T boundary, dinosaur fossils are found.  […]

    Osmium is the densest (22.59 g / mL) element known.  Because it is so “heavy”, we have a weightlifter on its square.  It is also used in the construction of compasses.   next element                       previous element

    Rhenium is used to make high performance military jet and rocket engines.   next element                 previous element