Ruthenium (Ru) — Element Properties, Uses & Facts
Overview
Ruthenium is a chemical element with symbol Ru and atomic number 44. It is a rare transition metal belonging to the platinum group of the periodic table. Like the other metals of the platinum group, ruthenium is inert to most other chemicals.
Electron configuration
The electron configuration of Ruthenium is [Kr] 4d7 5s1, with electron shells of 2, 8, 18, 15, 1.
Physical and chemical properties
Ruthenium is classified as a transition metal. It has an atomic mass of 101.072 and exists as a solid at standard conditions, appearing as silvery white metallic.
Real-world uses of Ruthenium
As a transition metal, Ruthenium is typically used in alloys, industrial manufacturing, electronics, or as a catalyst in chemical reactions.
Interesting facts about Ruthenium
- Ruthenium has the atomic number 44 and chemical symbol Ru.
- It belongs to period 5, group 8 of the periodic table.
- Ruthenium was discovered by Karl Ernst Claus.
Explore Ruthenium interactively
Want to compare Ruthenium with other elements or see it highlighted on the full table? Open the interactive periodic table and click on Ru to explore properties, trends, and neighboring elements. You can also test your knowledge with our periodic table quiz game.
What is Ruthenium used for?
As a transition metal, Ruthenium is typically used in alloys, industrial manufacturing, electronics, or as a catalyst in chemical reactions.
What is the atomic number of Ruthenium?
The atomic number of Ruthenium is 44, meaning it has 44 protons in its nucleus.
What is the electron configuration of Ruthenium?
The electron configuration of Ruthenium is [Kr] 4d7 5s1.
Is Ruthenium a metal, nonmetal, or metalloid?
Ruthenium is classified as a transition metal.