What is Scandium? Definition, Symbol, and Unique Features
Scandium is essential in chemistry and helps students understand various practical and theoretical applications related to this topic. Its unique position as a light, strong metal makes it important in studying the periodic table, alloys, and high-performance materials.
What is Scandium in Chemistry?
A scandium atom is a transition metal with the symbol Sc and atomic number 21. This element appears in chapters related to periodic table trends, transition elements, and d-block chemistry, making it a foundational part of your chemistry syllabus. Scandium is recognized for its silvery-white appearance, high melting point, and use in strong, lightweight alloys for aerospace and sports equipment.
Molecular Formula and Composition
The molecular formula of scandium in its elemental form is simply Sc. As an element, scandium consists of only scandium atoms and is categorized under transition metals in Group 3 of the periodic table.
Preparation and Synthesis Methods
Scandium is not found free in nature. Industrially, scandium is extracted from minerals like thortveitite and as a byproduct from uranium ore processing. Common steps involve:
- Extraction of scandium oxide (Sc2O3) from the ore.
- Reduction to metallic scandium using calcium or electrolysis.
Physical Properties of Scandium
Scandium is a silvery-white, lightweight metal with a melting point of about 1541 °C and a density of 2.99 g/cm³. It is moderately soft, can be scratched with a knife, and develops a yellowish tint when exposed to air.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Sc |
| Atomic Number | 21 |
| Atomic Mass | 44.955 u |
| Electron Configuration | [Ar] 3d14s2 |
| Melting Point | 1541 °C |
| Boiling Point | 2836 °C |
| Color | Silvery-white |
| Density | 2.99 g/cm³ |
Chemical Properties and Reactions
Scandium reacts slowly with cold water but reacts more rapidly with acids to form Sc3+ ions. It forms mostly ionic compounds and stable oxides. Scandium shows a +3 oxidation state and reacts with oxygen, halogens, and acids.
Frequent Related Errors
- Confusing scandium with similar transition metals like titanium or yttrium.
- Assuming scandium is a rare earth element; it's actually a transition metal.
- Ignoring its +3 oxidation state in compound formation.
Uses of Scandium in Real Life
Scandium is widely used in various industries. Here are some common uses:
- Added to aluminum alloys for aircraft, high-end sports equipment, and bicycle frames for greater strength and lower weight.
- Used in solid oxide fuel cells, which are important for clean energy.
- Scandium iodide is used in mercury vapor lamps for stadium lighting and studio photography.
- Certain scandium compounds find use in electronics and lasers.
- Its radioactive isotopes help trace leaks in pipelines and in medical applications.
Relation with Other Chemistry Concepts
Scandium is closely related to transition elements and d-block elements. Understanding scandium helps connect concepts across atomic structure, periodic trends, metals and nonmetals, and the chemical behavior of transition metals.
Step-by-Step Reaction Example
- Reaction of scandium with hydrochloric acid:
2Sc (s) + 6HCl (aq) → 2ScCl3 (aq) + 3H2 (g) -
Scandium is oxidized to Sc3+ while hydrogen ions are reduced to H2 gas.
The reaction produces scandium chloride solution and hydrogen gas bubbles.
Lab or Experimental Tips
Remember scandium by its position as the first d-block element in the periodic table. In Vedantu classes, educators suggest linking its properties to those of aluminum and yttrium for easier recall. Handle scandium compounds with gloves and protective eyewear during lab experiments.
Try This Yourself
- Write the electronic configuration of scandium.
- Which alloy uses scandium for strength in aircraft?
- Name a practical use of scandium iodide lamps.
- Compare scandium and titanium in terms of periodic group and properties.
Final Wrap-Up
We explored scandium—its structure, properties, reactions, and real-life importance. For more in-depth explanations and study support, explore Vedantu’s notes and live classes on the periodic table, atomic structure, and related chemistry concepts.
FAQs on Scandium – Properties, Uses, Facts & Atomic Structure
1. What is scandium?
Scandium is a silvery-white metallic element with the chemical symbol Sc and atomic number 21. It is considered a transition metal and is found in Group 3 of the periodic table. Scandium is lightweight, has unique alloying properties, and is used in various advanced technologies.
2. What are the main uses of scandium?
Scandium is valued for its role in producing strong, lightweight alloys and other specialized applications. Common uses include:
- Aerospace components for lightweight, high-strength parts
- Bicycle frames for increased strength and low weight
- Sports equipment such as baseball bats and golf clubs
- Electronics including some batteries and solid oxide fuel cells
- Lightweight revolver frames in firearms manufacturing
3. What is the physical appearance and color of scandium?
Scandium is a silvery-white metallic element. It is soft, lightweight, and tarnishes slightly in air, developing a yellowish or pinkish tint over time due to the formation of an oxide layer.
4. Where is scandium found in nature?
Scandium is rare and mainly found as a minor component in minerals such as thortveitite, euxenite, and gadolinite.
Major sources include mineral deposits in China, Russia, and Australia.
5. How is scandium extracted?
The extraction of scandium involves several steps:
- Mining of minerals containing small amounts of scandium
- Chemical separation from other rare earth elements
- Purification and isolation using methods like solvent extraction
6. Why is scandium so expensive?
Scandium is expensive because:
- It is rare in the Earth's crust and not found in concentrated deposits
- Extraction and purification processes are difficult and expensive
- There is high demand for its unique properties in specialized industries
7. Is scandium dangerous or toxic?
Scandium metal is generally not considered highly toxic. However:
- Scandium compounds should be handled with care, as with most metal compounds
- There is currently no significant evidence of scandium playing a role in human biology
- Appropriate safety protocols are recommended when working with its compounds
8. What is the electronic configuration of scandium?
The electronic configuration of scandium is [Ar] 3d1 4s2. This makes scandium the first element of the d-block or transition series in the periodic table.
9. What is the common oxidation state of scandium?
Scandium compounds most commonly display the +3 oxidation state. This means scandium typically forms Sc3+ ions in its chemical reactions and compounds.
10. What are some fun facts about scandium?
Interesting facts about scandium:
- Scandium was discovered in 1879 by Lars Fredrik Nilson in Sweden
- Its name comes from the Latin word "Scandia," meaning Scandinavia
- Scandium alloys are so strong and light that they are used in space technology
- It is considered both a transition metal and a rare earth element by different definitions
11. How does scandium compare to other transition metals?
Scandium marks the start of the d-block transition metals in the periodic table.
- It is lighter and less dense than most other transition elements, such as titanium or iron
- It exhibits only the +3 oxidation state, unlike many transition metals with multiple possible charges
- Scandium shares similarities with yttrium and lanthanum, especially in chemical behavior
12. Can scandium be recycled?
Yes, scandium can be recycled from industrial scraps and end-use products. However, recycling is limited due to its low usage and the challenge of collecting relevant materials in large quantities.
