palladium
Definition
Palladium is a chemical element with the symbol Pd and atomic number 46. It is a rare and valuable metal that is found in the Earth's crust. Palladium is a member of the platinum group of metals, which is a group of six metals that are very similar in their properties.
Palladium is a soft, silvery-white metal with a high melting point and boiling point. It is also very ductile and malleable, which means that it can be easily drawn into wires or hammered into sheets.
Palladium is a very inert metal, which means that it does not react with many other elements. This makes it a good choice for use in jewellery and medical devices.
Palladium is also a good conductor of electricity and heat. This makes it useful in applications such as automotive catalysts and fuel cells.
Palladium is a valuable metal that is used in a variety of applications. It is a key component in many modern technologies, and its demand is expected to continue to grow in the future.
How can the word be used?
A group of six metals that are chemically similar to platinum: ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, osmium, iridium, and platinum.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
- palladium (a chemical element with the symbol Pd and atomic number 46).
Adjective:
- palladic (of or containing palladium).
Etymology
The word "palladium" is derived from the Latin word "Pallas", which was the name of the Greek goddess of wisdom and handicraft. The first recorded use of the word "palladium" was in the 17th century.
Question
Where can a palladium be found?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Describe the uses and importance of palladium in modern industries. Explain why palladium is a sought-after metal and how its properties make it suitable for specific applications.
Answer:
Palladium, a precious metal from the platinum group, plays a pivotal role in various modern industries due to its exceptional properties. One key application is in catalytic converters, crucial components in vehicles that reduce harmful emissions. Palladium's ability to facilitate chemical reactions while resisting corrosion makes it a valuable catalyst in converting harmful gases like nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances.
Additionally, palladium finds use in electronics, where its excellent electrical conductivity and stability make it a favoured material for producing capacitors, connectors, and semiconductors. Its catalytic properties are also exploited in the pharmaceutical industry to synthesise complex organic molecules efficiently.
Palladium's role in the jewellery industry is notable as well, where its lustrous appearance and resistance to tarnish make it an attractive alternative to other precious metals. Moreover, palladium's use in dental alloys capitalises on its biocompatibility and durability.
The demand for palladium has surged due to its scarcity, limited mining sources, and its growing importance in green technologies. Its application in fuel cells and hydrogen storage systems further highlights its relevance in the transition to clean energy.
In conclusion, palladium's unique properties of catalytic activity, electrical conductivity, and aesthetic appeal drive its significance across industries, ranging from automotive to electronics. Its versatility and scarcity have positioned palladium as a sought-after metal with a vital role in shaping modern technologies and sustainable practices.