nickel [Ni]

Introduction

From the German kupfernickel loosely meaning false copper. Discovered in 1751 by Swedish chemist Axel F. Cronstedt in niccolite.

Occurrence

• rare in earth's crust
• may be far more common in earth's molten core

Characteristics

• silver-white hard malleable ductile metallic element capable of a high polish & resistant to corrosion
• resistant to oxidation

Uses

• alloys
  • stainless steel (up to 45%)
  • other corrosion-resistance alloys
• catalyst
• rechargable batteries
• heating elements
• the coin contains about 25% nickel

Pathology

• contact sensitivity to nickel is common.
  • results in allergic contact dermatitis
• approximately 6% of Americans are allergic to nickel.

Notes

• Nickel alloys are found in jewelery, including earings.

More general terms

• chemical element
• metal

Additional terms

• Ni+2
• nickel measurement; nickel in specimen
• periodic table

Database

• PubChem: http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=935
• PubChem: http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=934