What is Iodine as on the Periodic Table? Definition of the Iodine Element
A lustrous, violet-black, corrosive, poisonous halogen element having radioactive isotopes, especially I 131, used as a medical tracer and in thyroid disease diagnosis and therapy. Iodine is the most electropositive halogen and the least reactive of the halogens even if it can still form compounds with many elements. Iodine compounds are used as germicides, antiseptics, and dyes. The Atomic Number of this element is 53 and the Element Symbol is I.
The Properties of the Iodine Element
Symbol of Element : I
Atomic Number : 53
Atomic Mass: 126.90447 amu
Melting Point: 113.5 °C - 386.65 °K
Boiling Point: 184.0 °C - 457.15 °K
Number of Protons/Electrons: 53
Number of Neutrons: 74
Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic
Density @ 293 K: 4.93 g/cm3
Color : violet-black
What is Iodine? Origin / Meaning of the name Iodine
The name originates from the Greek word Iodes meaning "violet" because of its violet vapors.
What is Iodine? Periodic Table Group and Classification of the Iodine Element
Elements can be classified based on their physical states (States of Matter) e.g. gas, solid or liquid. This element is a solid. Iodine is classified as an element in the 'Halogens' section which can be located in group 7 of the Periodic Table. The term "halogen" means "salt-former" and compounds containing halogens are called "salts". The halogens exist, at room temperature, in all three states of matter - Gases such as Fluorine & Chlorine, Solids such as Iodine and Astatine and Liquid as in Bromine.
What is Iodine? Facts about the Discovery and History of the Iodine Element
Iodine was discovered in 1812 by Courtois in the ashes of sea plants including sea weed. Its presence was revealed by its beautiful violet vapor, and this suggested the name iodine (from the Greek for violet appearance). Samples of Iodine were passed to his friend Charles Bernard Desormes (1777-1862) who continued experimenting with the element.
What is Iodine? Occurrence of the Iodine Element
In the combined state iodine occurs in very small quantities in sea water, from which it is absorbed by certain sea plants, so that it is found in their ashes. It occurs along with bromine in salt springs and beds, and is also found in Chili saltpeter.Commonly obtained from Sodium and Potassium compounds. For additional facts and information refer to Iodine Properties.
Medical Uses of Iodine - Health and Treatments
Interesting information on the Medical Uses of Iodine, Health and Treatments. Iodine is used in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid diseases and cancer of the thyroid. Its most common use is in liquid form containing iodine dissolved in ethyl alcohol, used as an antiseptic for wounds.
Associated Uses of Iodine
Germicides
Antiseptics
Dyes
Table salt
Organic chemistry
Photography