Aluminium (Al) — Element Properties, Uses & Facts
Overview
Aluminium (or aluminum; see different endings) is a chemical element in the boron group with symbol Al and atomic number 13. It is a silvery-white, soft, nonmagnetic, ductile metal. Aluminium is the third most abundant element (after oxygen and silicon), and the most abundant metal, in the Earth's crust.
Electron configuration
The electron configuration of Aluminium is [Ne] 3s2 3p1, with electron shells of 2, 8, 3.
Physical and chemical properties
Aluminium is classified as a transition metal. It has an atomic mass of 26.982 and exists as a solid at standard conditions, appearing as silvery gray metallic.
Real-world uses of Aluminium
As a transition metal, Aluminium is typically used in alloys, industrial manufacturing, electronics, or as a catalyst in chemical reactions.
Interesting facts about Aluminium
- Aluminium has the atomic number 13 and chemical symbol Al.
- It belongs to period 3, group 13 of the periodic table.
- Aluminium was known since ancient times, though no single discoverer is recorded.
Explore Aluminium interactively
Want to compare Aluminium with other elements or see it highlighted on the full table? Open the interactive periodic table and click on Al to explore properties, trends, and neighboring elements. You can also test your knowledge with our periodic table quiz game.
What is Aluminium used for?
As a transition metal, Aluminium is typically used in alloys, industrial manufacturing, electronics, or as a catalyst in chemical reactions.
What is the atomic number of Aluminium?
The atomic number of Aluminium is 13, meaning it has 13 protons in its nucleus.
What is the electron configuration of Aluminium?
The electron configuration of Aluminium is [Ne] 3s2 3p1.
Is Aluminium a metal, nonmetal, or metalloid?
Aluminium is classified as a transition metal.