Nickel

Nickel is a chemical element with the symbol Ni and atomic number 28. It is a silvery-white lustrous metal with a slight golden tinge. Nickel belongs to the transition metals and is hard and ductile. It is often used in alloys, with stainless steel being a common example. Nickel is also a vital element for many living organisms and has a variety of industrial uses.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Here are some of the key physical and chemical properties of nickel:

Atomic number: 28
Atomic symbol: Ni
Atomic weight: 58.6934
Phase at room temperature: Solid
Melting point: 1455°C (2651°F)
Boiling point: 2730°C (4946°F)
Density: 8.908 grams per cubic centimeter
Electron configuration: [Ar] 3d8 4s2
Common oxidation states: +2, +3
Common isotopes: Ni-58, Ni-60, Ni-61, Ni-62, Ni-64

Uses of Nickel

Nickel has a wide range of uses, including:

Production of stainless steel
Manufacturing of coins
Production of nickel-based alloys, such as Inconel and Monel
Electroplating to provide a decorative and protective coating
Catalysts in chemical reactions
Component in rechargeable batteries
Medical applications, such as in prosthetics and implants

Health and Environmental Effects

While nickel is an essential element for many organisms, it can also have negative health and environmental effects. Prolonged exposure to high levels of nickel can lead to allergic reactions and lung cancer. Nickel compounds are also known to be harmful to the environment and can cause pollution if not handled properly.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember when studying nickel:

Understand the physical and chemical properties of nickel, including its atomic number, atomic weight, and common oxidation states.
Be familiar with the uses of nickel in various industries, such as stainless steel production and electroplating.
Recognize the potential health and environmental effects of nickel exposure and the importance of proper handling and disposal.
Review the role of nickel in biological systems and its significance as an essential element for certain organisms.

By understanding these key points, you can develop a comprehensive understanding of the properties, uses, and effects of nickel.

◂Science Worksheets and Study Guides Eighth Grade. Rocks

Vocabulary/Answer key

Rocks

Vocabulary/Answer key

Rocks

Vocabulary/Answer key

Rocks

The resources above cover the following skills:

Earth/Space Science: Students will use scientific skills and processes to explain the chemical and physical interactions (i.e., natural forces and cycles, transfer of energy) of the environment, Earth, and the universe that occur over time.

Earth History: Explain how sedimentary rock is formed periodically, embedding plant and animal remains and leaving a record of the sequence in which the plants and animals appeared and disappeared.

Explain how sedimentary rock buried deep enough may be reformed by pressure and heat and these reformed rock layers may be forced up again to become land surface and even mountains.