Strontium

Symbol: Sr

Atomic Number: 38

Atomic Weight: 87.62

Strontium (atomic number 38, symbol Sr) is an alkaline earth metal that is commercially available. Its chemical and physical properties are similar to that of elements such as barium and calcium. It was discovered in 1790 by the Scottish chemist William Cruickshank and the physician and chemist Adair Crawford.

Properties
The element reacts vigorously when in contact with water and tarnishes in air. With water, it forms hydrogen gas and strontium hydroxide, which is a caustic alkali, causing severe lung, eye, and skin irritation. There are two oxidation states - 1 and 2 - and 4 stable isotopes - Sr-88,...Read More