Antimony

Antimony (Sb)

Atomic Number: 51
Atomic Weight: 121.75
Melting Point: 630.74
Boiling Point: 1750
Specific Gravity: 6.691
Valence(s): -3,0,3, and 5
Antimony was recognized in compounds by the ancients, and known as a metal by the 17th Century. Antimony occurs in a normal metallic form and as an amorphorous gray form. It is found in small amounts in over 100 minerals. Antimony is used to increase the hardness and strength of lead. Antimony and its compounds are toxic. [LM] {RW}