Manganese (Mn)
Transition metal · d-block · period 4 · group 7
Hard, brittle, grey-white metal.
Manganese (symbol Mn) is chemical element number 25, a transition metal in group 7, period 4 of the periodic table. Its standard atomic weight is 54.938 and its electron configuration is [Ar] 3d5 4s2. At room temperature it is a solid. Almost every steel contains some manganese to remove sulfur and add toughness.
Properties
| Atomic number | 25 |
|---|---|
| Atomic mass | 54.938 |
| Category | Transition metal |
| Block | d-block |
| Group · Period | 7 · 4 |
| Electron configuration | [Ar] 3d5 4s2 |
| Electrons per shell | 2, 8, 13, 2 |
| State at 25 °C | solid |
| Melting point | 1519 K |
| Boiling point | 2334 K |
| Density | 7.21 g/cm³ |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 1.55 |
| Radioactive | No |
| Origin | primordial |
| Discovered | 1774 · Johan Gottlieb Gahn |
Key facts about Manganese
- Almost every steel contains some manganese to remove sulfur and add toughness.
- Potassium permanganate is a deep purple oxidiser and disinfectant.
- The most common dry-cell battery uses a manganese dioxide cathode.
- An essential trace nutrient for enzymes in plants and animals.
What Manganese is used for
Steel and aluminium alloys, dry-cell batteries, pigments, fertiliser micronutrient, water treatment.
Where it sits in the periodic table
Manganese is in group 7, period 4, of the d-block. Its electron configuration [Ar] 3d5 4s2 means its outermost shell holds 2 electrons, which is what places it here and explains much of its chemistry. See Manganese on the interactive table →
Manganese — frequently asked questions
What is Manganese used for?
Steel and aluminium alloys, dry-cell batteries, pigments, fertiliser micronutrient, water treatment.
Is Manganese radioactive?
No. Manganese has at least one stable isotope and is not radioactive.
What is the electron configuration of Manganese?
Manganese has the electron configuration [Ar] 3d5 4s2, which is 2, 8, 13, 2 electrons per shell.
What group and period is Manganese in?
Manganese is in group 7, period 4, in the d-block. Its outer shell holds 2 electrons.
Who discovered Manganese?
Manganese was discovered in 1774 by Johan Gottlieb Gahn.