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Nickel Atom

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Delving into the Heart of Matter: Understanding the Nickel Atom



This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the nickel atom, exploring its structure, properties, and its significance in various fields. From its fundamental atomic composition to its crucial role in everyday materials and technologies, we will unravel the fascinating intricacies of this ubiquitous element.

1. Atomic Structure of Nickel



Nickel (Ni), with its atomic number 28, sits comfortably in the transition metal group of the periodic table. This means it possesses a partially filled d electron subshell, a characteristic that heavily influences its chemical and physical properties. A neutral nickel atom contains 28 protons in its nucleus, balanced by 28 electrons orbiting in distinct energy levels or shells. The most common isotope, Nickel-58, also boasts 30 neutrons within the nucleus. The arrangement of these subatomic particles dictates the atom's size, reactivity, and magnetic behaviour. The electrons are distributed across four principal energy levels (shells), with the electron configuration being [Ar] 3d⁸ 4s². This configuration explains nickel's ability to form multiple oxidation states, primarily +2 and +3, although others exist.

2. Physical and Chemical Properties



Nickel's physical properties are as striking as its chemical behaviour. It is a silvery-white metal, known for its high strength, ductility (ability to be drawn into wires), and malleability (ability to be hammered into shapes). Its high melting point (1455 °C) and boiling point (2732 °C) reflect the strong metallic bonding between its atoms. Nickel is also ferromagnetic, meaning it can be permanently magnetized, a property extensively exploited in various applications.

Chemically, nickel is relatively unreactive at room temperature, although it slowly reacts with acids and oxidizes in moist air to form a passive oxide layer that protects it from further corrosion. This resistance to corrosion makes it a valuable material in various industrial applications. This slow reaction explains why nickel-plated items, common in everyday life, maintain their shine. For example, nickel plating on tools and car parts provides protection against rust. Its ability to catalyze chemical reactions is also significant, playing a vital role in processes such as hydrogenation (adding hydrogen to organic compounds).

3. Isotopes and Applications



Nickel exists naturally as a mixture of five stable isotopes, the most abundant being Nickel-58 (68.077%). These isotopes share the same number of protons but differ in the number of neutrons. The different isotopes have nearly identical chemical properties but may exhibit slight variations in physical properties, such as mass.


Nickel's unique properties have led to its widespread application in numerous industries. It is a crucial component of stainless steel, enhancing its strength and corrosion resistance. Nickel-based superalloys are vital in high-temperature applications like gas turbine blades in jet engines. Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) and nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries are used extensively in portable electronics. Nickel also finds applications in coinage, plating, and catalysis. The catalytic converter in automobiles utilizes nickel (along with platinum and palladium) to convert harmful exhaust gases into less harmful substances.


4. Biological Role and Toxicity



While nickel is essential for some microorganisms, its role in higher organisms is not fully understood. In trace amounts, it may have some beneficial effects, but higher concentrations can be toxic. Nickel exposure can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, manifested as skin rashes or respiratory problems. Occupational exposure to nickel compounds can increase the risk of lung cancer. Therefore, proper handling and safety precautions are crucial when working with nickel.


5. Conclusion



The nickel atom, with its unique atomic structure and properties, plays a significant role in our modern world. From its contribution to the strength and durability of stainless steel to its use in advanced technologies, nickel's importance is undeniable. However, it's crucial to be mindful of its potential toxicity and handle it responsibly. Understanding the fundamentals of the nickel atom helps us appreciate its diverse applications and the importance of managing its use sustainably.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):



1. Is nickel a rare element? No, nickel is a relatively abundant element in the Earth's crust.
2. What is the difference between nickel and chromium? Both are transition metals but differ in their electron configurations and hence their properties. Chromium is more resistant to corrosion than nickel.
3. Can nickel be recycled? Yes, nickel is a highly recyclable metal, and recycling significantly reduces its environmental impact.
4. What are the health risks associated with nickel exposure? Exposure to high levels of nickel can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and potentially increase the risk of lung cancer.
5. Why is nickel used in batteries? Nickel's ability to readily accept and release electrons makes it suitable for use in rechargeable batteries.

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Nickel | Ni (Element) - PubChem Nickel is a chemical element with symbol Ni and atomic number 28. Classified as a transition metal, Nickel is a solid at 25°C (room temperature). [Ar]4s 2 3d 8. J.C. Slater, J Chem Phys, …

Nickel - Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Nickel (chemical symbol Ni) is an element. It has an atomic number of 28 and an atomic mass of about 58.69amu. It has 28 protons. It is a transition metal. Nickel is a silver-white metal. It is …

Enhanced Tribological Performance of a Ni/GO-Coated 2024 … 21 May 2020 · In this paper, graphene oxide (GO) was prepared by the Hummer’s method. A Ni/GO composite coating was deposited by electroplating onto a 2024-t6 aluminum alloy to …

Nickel – Atomic Number – Ni - Periodic Table of Elements 21 Nov 2020 · Nickel is a chemical element with atomic number 28 which means there are 28 protons and 28 electrons in the atomic structure. The chemical symbol for Nickel is Ni. Nickel …

Surface electron-donor-boosting single-atom nickel sites for CO2 ... The electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO 2 RR) in pure water is one of the most promising strategies for avoiding crystallization in conventional electrolytes. Here, we sought …

(PDF) Dissolved organic matter in urban forestland soil and its ... 1 Jan 2019 · As an active substance, dissolved organic matter (DOM) acts a pivotal part in heavy metals (HMs) transportation from urban forestland soil to aquatic ecosystem. In this study, the …

Degradation of nitrobenzene by synchronistic oxidation and … 5 Mar 2019 · The degradation of nitrobenzene by synchronistic oxidation and reduction was investigated using an internal circulation microelectrolysis (ICE) reactor with an active volume …

The Element Nickel-- Nickel Atom - World of Molecules Nickel is a chemical element in the periodic table that has the symbol Ni and atomic number 28. Nickel is silvery white metal that takes on a high polish. It belongs to the iron group, and is …

WebElements Periodic Table » Nickel » properties of free atoms 2 Aug 2016 · Nickel atoms have 28 electrons and the shell structure is 2.8.16.2. The ground state electron configuration of ground state gaseous neutral nickel is [Ar].3d 8.4s 2 and the term …

Nickel | CCDC - University of Cambridge Nickel is the 5th most common element on the Earth with the concentration of nickel in the Earth’s crust being 80 parts per million. More than two thirds of the global nickel production is used to …

Nickel – Atomic Mass – Atomic Weight – Ni - Periodic Table of ... 21 Nov 2020 · Nickel is a chemical element with atomic number 28 which means there are 28 protons and 28 electrons in the atomic structure. The chemical symbol for Nickel is Ni. Nickel …

Ni Valence Electrons Explained - AceNet Hub 25 Feb 2025 · Nickel, with its atomic number 28, has an electronic configuration of 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 3d⁸ 4s². To identify the valence electrons, we look at the electrons in the outermost shell. …

Nickel - Wikipedia Nickel is a chemical element; it has symbol Ni and atomic number 28. It is a silvery-white lustrous metal with a slight golden tinge. Nickel is a hard and ductile transition metal.

Nickel Single-atom Catalysts Anchored on Heteroatom (X=B, N, … 4 days ago · However, the introduction of heteroatom on catalyst is associated with its catalytic performance. Herein, we rationally designed the nickel SACs (Ni/nX-GDY, n=1-2) anchored on …

Nickel (Ni) – Periodic Table (Element Information & More) 1 Sep 2024 · Nickel element is in group 10 and period 4 of the Periodic table. Nickel is the d-block element and it belongs to transition metals group. Click on above elements (in Periodic table) …

Nickel - Properties and Data - ChemLin Chemical, physical and material properties and data of the chemical element Nickel. Shorthand electron configuration of Nickel: [Ar] 3d8 4s2 . The following table lists the ionization energies …

WebElements Periodic Table » Nickel » the essentials Nickel atoms have 28 electrons and the shell structure is 2.8.16.2. The ground state electronic configuration of neutral nickel is [Ar]. 3d8. 4s2 and the term symbol of nickel is 3F4. Nickel is …

What is Nickel – Properties of Nickel Element – Symbol Ni 26 Nov 2021 · Nickel is a chemical element with atomic number 28 which means there are 28 protons and 28 electrons in the atomic structure. The chemical symbol for Nickel is Ni . Nickel …

Nickel | Definition, Properties, Symbol, Uses, & Facts | Britannica 26 May 2025 · Nickel, chemical element, ferromagnetic metal of Group 10 (VIIIb) of the periodic table, markedly resistant to oxidation and corrosion. Silvery white, tough, and harder than iron, …

Nickel Element | History, Uses, Facts, Physical & Chemical … Nickel is a silvery white hard metal. It is soft and ductile in nature. Nickel is ferromagnetic and a fair conductor of heat and electricity. Its symbol is ‘’Ni’’ and its atomic number is 28. Its atomic …

Nickel - Element information, properties and uses | Periodic Table Element Nickel (Ni), Group 10, Atomic Number 28, d-block, Mass 58.693. Sources, facts, uses, scarcity (SRI), podcasts, alchemical symbols, videos and images.

Dissolved organic matter in urban forestland soil and its … 30 Nov 2018 · As an active substance, dissolved organic matter (DOM) acts a pivotal part in heavy metals (HMs) transportation from urban forestland soil to aquatic ecosystem. In this …

Nickel (Ni) - ChemicalAid Nickel (Ni) has an atomic mass of 28. Find out about its chemical and physical properties, states, energy, electrons, oxidation and more.