Niobium (Nb)
Transition metal · d-block · period 5 · group 5
Soft, grey, ductile metal that develops a blue oxide film.
Niobium (symbol Nb) is chemical element number 41, a transition metal in group 5, period 5 of the periodic table. Its standard atomic weight is 92.906 and its electron configuration is [Kr] 4d4 5s1. At room temperature it is a solid. Named after Niobe, daughter of Tantalus, because it is so like tantalum.
Properties
| Atomic number | 41 |
|---|---|
| Atomic mass | 92.906 |
| Category | Transition metal |
| Block | d-block |
| Group · Period | 5 · 5 |
| Electron configuration | [Kr] 4d4 5s1 |
| Electrons per shell | 2, 8, 18, 12, 1 |
| State at 25 °C | solid |
| Melting point | 2750 K |
| Boiling point | 5017 K |
| Density | 8.57 g/cm³ |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 1.6 |
| Radioactive | No |
| Origin | primordial |
| Discovered | 1801 · Charles Hatchett |
Key facts about Niobium
- Named after Niobe, daughter of Tantalus, because it is so like tantalum.
- Niobium-tin wire becomes superconducting when cooled, and is wound into MRI and particle-accelerator magnets.
- A pinch of niobium makes pipeline and structural steel much stronger.
- Anodising it produces vivid rainbow colours, popular in jewellery.
What Niobium is used for
Superconducting magnets, high-strength low-alloy steel, jet-engine superalloys, coloured jewellery.
Where it sits in the periodic table
Niobium is in group 5, period 5, of the d-block. Its electron configuration [Kr] 4d4 5s1 means its outermost shell holds 1 electron, which is what places it here and explains much of its chemistry. See Niobium on the interactive table →
Niobium — frequently asked questions
What is Niobium used for?
Superconducting magnets, high-strength low-alloy steel, jet-engine superalloys, coloured jewellery.
Is Niobium radioactive?
No. Niobium has at least one stable isotope and is not radioactive.
What is the electron configuration of Niobium?
Niobium has the electron configuration [Kr] 4d4 5s1, which is 2, 8, 18, 12, 1 electrons per shell.
What group and period is Niobium in?
Niobium is in group 5, period 5, in the d-block. Its outer shell holds 1 electron.
Who discovered Niobium?
Niobium was discovered in 1801 by Charles Hatchett.