Tungsten (symbol W, atomic number 74) is the metal with the highest melting point, used in light-bulb filaments and drill bits. It is classified as a transition metal and sits in group 6, period 6 of the periodic table.
Overview
Tungsten is the chemical element with atomic number 74 and the symbol W. With a standard atomic weight of 183.84, it is a transition metal. In the periodic table it occupies group 6 and period 6, and under standard conditions it is normally a solid. Tungsten is the metal with the highest melting point, used in light-bulb filaments and drill bits.
Atomic structure
An atom of Tungsten has 74 protons in its nucleus and, when neutral, 74 electrons arranged in the configuration [Xe] 4f14 5d4 6s2. Its standard atomic weight of 183.84 reflects the natural mix of its stable isotopes.
Discovery and place in the table
Tungsten was discovered in 1783 by Juan José Elhuyar, Fausto Elhuyar. It follows Tantalum (Ta) and precedes Rhenium (Re) in order of atomic number.
| Atomic number | 74 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | W |
| Atomic mass | 183.84 |
| Category | Transition metal |
| Group | 6 |
| Period | 6 |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f14 5d4 6s2 |
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Discovered | 1783 (Juan José Elhuyar, Fausto Elhuyar) |