76
Osmium
Atomic Number76
Atomic Mass190.2 u
CategoryTransition Metal
State at Room TempSolid
Year Discovered1803
About Osmium
The densest naturally occurring element, twice as dense as lead. Osmium tetroxide is prized for staining samples in electron microscopy and for developing fingerprints, but it is brutally toxic. Osmium alloys tip fountain pen nibs and electrical contacts. Named from the Greek osme, meaning smell, because its volatile oxide reeks. Discovered in platinum ore with iridium.
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