Indium (In): Properties, Uses and Facts in 3D

Indium is element 49 on the periodic table, a post-transition metal. 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.

Indium (In) shown in the VisionVix 3D Periodic TableExplore in 3D
Indium in the VisionVix 3D Periodic Table. Click the picture to open it live.

Indium quick facts

Atomic number49
SymbolIn
Atomic mass114.818
CategoryPost-Transition Metal
Group and periodGroup 13, period 5
Blockp-block
State at room temperatureSolid
Electron configuration[Kr] 4d¹⁰ 5s² 5p¹
Electrons per shell2, 8, 18, 18, 3
Discovered1863, Reich

What is indium used for?

  • Indium tin oxide (ITO) in touchscreens
  • Low-melting-point alloys
  • Bearings & plating

Interesting facts about indium

  • Indium tin oxide is the transparent conductor in most touchscreens and LCDs
  • Indium emits a characteristic "tin cry". A high-pitched squeak when bent
  • Indium supply is limited because it is mainly a by-product of zinc mining

Indium was discovered in 1863 by Reich in Germany.

Where indium sits on the periodic table

Indium is in group 13, period 5. Tap any element to open its page.

Previous element48. CadmiumNext element50. Tin

Other post-transition metals

Indium questions

What is the atomic number of indium?

Indium has atomic number 49, so every indium atom has 49 protons in its nucleus. Its symbol is In and its atomic mass is 114.818.

Is indium a metal?

Indium is a metal. On the periodic table it is grouped as a post-transition metal, found in group 13, period 5.

What is the electron configuration of indium?

The electron configuration of indium is [Kr] 4d¹⁰ 5s² 5p¹. Its electrons sit in 5 shells: 2, 8, 18, 18, 3.

What is indium used for?

Indium is used for indium tin oxide (ito) in touchscreens, low-melting-point alloys and bearings & plating.

Who discovered indium?

Indium was discovered in 1863 by Reich in Germany.

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.