Tantalum (Ta)

Tantalum (Ta)

Atomic Number: 73
Atomic Weight: 178.49
Melting Point: 2150
Boiling Point: 5400
Specific Gravity: 13.29
Valence(s): 4

Ekeberg discovered Tantalum in 1802. It occurs principally in the mineral columbite-tantalite. Tantalum has no known harmful effects on the human body, so it is used in manufacturing surgical equipment. It is in manufacturing aircraft and missile parts. It is named after Tantalus, Greek mythological figure and father of Niobe. [LM] {RW}