Boron (B): Properties, Uses and Facts in 3D
Boron is element 5 on the periodic table, a metalloid, with properties between metals and nonmetals. At room temperature it is a solid. Open it in the 3D Periodic Table to spin its tile, see its electron shells and read its story.
Explore in 3DBoron quick facts
| Atomic number | 5 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | B |
| Atomic mass | 10.81 |
| Category | Metalloid |
| Group and period | Group 13, period 2 |
| Block | p-block |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [He] 2s² 2p¹ |
| Electrons per shell | 2, 3 |
| Discovered | 1808, Gay-Lussac |
What is boron used for?
- Borosilicate glass (Pyrex)
- Borax laundry booster
- Nuclear reactor control rods
Interesting facts about boron
- Cubic boron nitride is second only to diamond in hardness
- The human body contains about 18 mg of boron, which may support bone health
- Borax was used in ancient times for glazes and gold-working
Boron was discovered in 1808 by Gay-Lussac in France.
Where boron sits on the periodic table
Boron is in group 13, period 2. Tap any element to open its page.
Other metalloids
Boron questions
What is the atomic number of boron?
Boron has atomic number 5, so every boron atom has 5 protons in its nucleus. Its symbol is B and its atomic mass is 10.81.
Is boron a metal?
Boron is a metalloid, with properties between metals and nonmetals. On the periodic table it is grouped as a metalloid, found in group 13, period 2.
What is the electron configuration of boron?
The electron configuration of boron is [He] 2s² 2p¹. Its electrons sit in 2 shells: 2, 3.
What is boron used for?
Boron is used for borosilicate glass (pyrex), borax laundry booster and nuclear reactor control rods.
Who discovered boron?
Boron was discovered in 1808 by Gay-Lussac in France.
The 3D Periodic Table is made by Julian Neagu, a solo founder in London, as part of VisionVix Simulators. It is free to use in the browser on desktop and phone, with no sign-up.