Physical Properties Of Niobium

Niobium is a metallic element with the symbol Nb and atomic number 41. It has a silvery-grey color and is a relatively soft, ductile metal that can be easily worked and shaped. Some of the key physical properties of niobium include:

1. Melting Point: The melting point of niobium is 2,468°C (4,474°F), which is one of the highest among all metals.

2. Density: Niobium has a density of 8.57 grams per cubic centimeter, which is about half that of tungsten and slightly less than that of steel.

3. Hardness: Niobium is a relatively soft metal, with a hardness of approximately 6 on the Mohs scale.

4. Conductivity: Niobium is an excellent conductor of electricity and heat, with a thermal conductivity of 53 W/m·K and an electrical conductivity of 13.1 × 10^6 S/m.

5. Corrosion Resistance: Niobium is highly resistant to corrosion and maintains its structural integrity in many harsh environments, including acidic and alkaline solutions.

6. Magnetic Properties: Niobium is a diamagnetic material, meaning it is not attracted to magnets and has no permanent magnetic moment.

Overall, niobium is a versatile metal with unique physical properties that make it valuable for a variety of industrial and scientific applications, including in superconductors, aerospace alloys, and nuclear reactors.