Quick Facts
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Po |
| Atomic Number | 84 |
| Atomic Mass | [209] u |
| Category | Metalloid |
| Period | 6 |
| Group | 16 |
| Block | p |
| Electron Configuration | [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6s² 6p⁴ |
Physical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| State at 20°C | Solid |
| Density | 9.20 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 254°C (527 K) |
| Boiling Point | 962°C (1235 K) |
| Appearance | Silvery metal |
History and Discovery
Discovered by: Marie and Pierre Curie Year of Discovery: 1898 Location: Paris, France
Etymology
Named after Poland, Marie Curie's homeland.
Applications and Uses
- Static eliminators (Po-210, declining use)
- Neutron sources (with beryllium)
- Heat source for satellites (thermoelectric generators)
- Historically used in spark plugs
Toxicity
Polonium-210 is extremely toxic. A microgram is lethal. Used in the assassination of Alexander Litvinenko (2006).
Interesting Facts
- First element discovered by Marie Curie
- One of the most radioactive natural elements
- Generates significant heat from radioactive decay
- Infamously used as a poison
- Named to draw attention to Poland's lack of independence