Zirconium (Zr) — Element Properties, Uses & Facts
Overview
Zirconium is a chemical element with symbol Zr and atomic number 40. The name of zirconium is taken from the name of the mineral zircon, the most important source of zirconium. The word zircon comes from the Persian word zargun زرگون, meaning "gold-colored".
Electron configuration
The electron configuration of Zirconium is [Kr] 4d2 5s2, with electron shells of 2, 8, 18, 10, 2.
Physical and chemical properties
Zirconium is classified as a transition metal. It has an atomic mass of 91.224 and exists as a solid at standard conditions, appearing as silvery white.
Real-world uses of Zirconium
As a transition metal, Zirconium is typically used in alloys, industrial manufacturing, electronics, or as a catalyst in chemical reactions.
Interesting facts about Zirconium
- Zirconium has the atomic number 40 and chemical symbol Zr.
- It belongs to period 5, group 4 of the periodic table.
- Zirconium was discovered by Martin Heinrich Klaproth.
Explore Zirconium interactively
Want to compare Zirconium with other elements or see it highlighted on the full table? Open the interactive periodic table and click on Zr to explore properties, trends, and neighboring elements. You can also test your knowledge with our periodic table quiz game.
What is Zirconium used for?
As a transition metal, Zirconium is typically used in alloys, industrial manufacturing, electronics, or as a catalyst in chemical reactions.
What is the atomic number of Zirconium?
The atomic number of Zirconium is 40, meaning it has 40 protons in its nucleus.
What is the electron configuration of Zirconium?
The electron configuration of Zirconium is [Kr] 4d2 5s2.
Is Zirconium a metal, nonmetal, or metalloid?
Zirconium is classified as a transition metal.