Barium, symbolized as Ba in the periodic table, is a chemical element with atomic number 56. It belongs to the alkaline earth metals group and is a soft, silvery-white, highly reactive metal. In its pure form, barium rapidly oxidizes in air, forming a thin oxide layer. It is primarily extracted from the mineral barite and is found in various ores such as witherite.
With a melting point of 725°C (1,337°F) and a boiling point of 1,410°C (2,570°F), barium possesses numerous useful chemical and physical properties. One notable property is its density, which is almost twice that of iron, resulting in its high weight. Due to this heavy nature, barium compounds are commonly utilized in applications where its high atomic mass adds functionality, such as in medical imaging.
Barium has several important industrial applications. One of the most notable uses is in the production of petroleum additives, as barium compounds act as catalysts. Additionally, barium sulfate is employed extensively in radiography and diagnostics due to its ability to block X-rays, thus enhancing the visibility of specific organs and structures in medical imaging.
Although barium has various useful applications, it should be handled with caution due to its toxicity. Its compounds, particularly soluble ones, can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. Due to its potential health risks, proper safety precautions should always be followed in its handling and use.
