Periodic table / Radium

Overview

Radium is a chemical element with symbol Ra and atomic number 88. It is the sixth element in group 2 of the periodic table, also known as the alkaline earth metals. Pure radium is almost colorless, but it readily combines with nitrogen (rather than oxygen) on exposure to air, forming a black surface layer of radium nitride (Ra3N2).

Electron configuration

The electron configuration of Radium is [Rn] 7s2, with electron shells of 2, 8, 18, 32, 18, 8, 2.

Physical and chemical properties

Radium is classified as a alkaline earth metal. It has an atomic mass of 226 and exists as a solid at standard conditions, appearing as silvery white metallic.

Real-world uses of Radium

Radium and other alkaline earth metals are commonly used in alloys, industrial compounds, and in some cases in medical or agricultural applications.

Interesting facts about Radium

• Radium has the atomic number 88 and chemical symbol Ra.
• It belongs to period 7, group 2 of the periodic table.
• Radium was discovered by Pierre Curie.

Explore Radium interactively

Want to compare Radium with other elements or see it highlighted on the full table? Open the interactive periodic table and click on Ra to explore properties, trends, and neighboring elements. You can also test your knowledge with our periodic table quiz game.