What Is Cesium?
Cesium, symbol Cs, atomic number 55, is a soft, yellowish-silvery alkali metal that becomes liquid near room temperature. Found in minerals like polsite and logisite, cesium reacts vigorously with water and oxidizes in the air, making it highly reactive. Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope, is a known byproduct of nuclear fission.
Uses of Cesium
Due to its ability to emit electrons under light, cesium is utilized in phototubes and strobe discharge tubes. Its applications extend to catalysts in industry, improving other metal oxide catalysts’ functions, and in the manufacturing of optical glass. Cesium compounds like cesium iodide and cesium fluoride are essential in radiation measurement and medical diagnostics due to their scintillation properties. Additionally, cesium’s precise electron transitions are utilized in atomic clocks for timekeeping.
Properties of Cesium
With a melting point of 28.5°C and a boiling point of 705°C, cesium is the softest element solid at room temperature. Its high reactivity includes spontaneous combustion in air and explosive reactions with water, showcasing a Mohs hardness of only 0.2.
Structure of Cesium
At room temperature, cesium exhibits a body-centered cubic lattice structure, transitioning to rhombohedral at varying temperatures and pressures. Its cubic α-Cs phase is the most stable under normal conditions.
Other Information on Cesium
1. Process of Cesium
Cesium is extracted from ores like porcite through acid or alkali decomposition or direct reduction. It can also be obtained from cesium compounds by reduction with calcium or barium, electrolysis of cesium cyanide, pyrolysis of cesium azide, or reaction with zirconium.
2. Legal Information
Cesium falls under various safety laws, highlighting its need for careful handling.
3. Handling and Storage Precautions
Proper storage in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area under an inert gas atmosphere is crucial. Protective gear is essential to prevent violent reactions with common substances and ensure safety during handling.