scandium [Sc]
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Introduction
From the Latin Scandia meaning Scandinavia. Discovered in 1879 by Lars F. Nilson at Uppsala, Sweden in the mineral euxinite which had not yet been found outside of Scandinavia.
Occurrence
- found in association with rare-earth elements
- not found as free metal
- occurs in minute quantities in > 100 different minerals
- obtained in pure form as a by-product of refining uranium
Characteristics
- silvery-white soft metallic element
- tarnishes in air
- burns readily to form scandium oxide
- when finely divided or heated, the metal dissolves in water
- very reactive towards halogens, forming ScX3*
- mildly toxic when ingested
- suspected carcinogen
Uses
- mercury vapor lights for high-intensity lighting that approximates sunlight
- alloys used in athletic equipment
- when added to aluminum alloys, increases strength & reduces grain size