Platinum (Pt): Properties, Uses and Facts in 3D
Platinum is element 78 on the periodic table, a 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.
Explore in 3DPlatinum quick facts
| Atomic number | 78 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Pt |
| Atomic mass | 195.084 |
| Category | Transition Metal |
| Group and period | Group 10, period 6 |
| Block | d-block |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d⁹ 6s¹ |
| Electrons per shell | 2, 8, 18, 32, 17, 1 |
| Discovered | 1748, Ulloa |
What is platinum used for?
- Catalytic converters in petrol vehicles
- Chemotherapy (cisplatin, carboplatin)
- Fine jewellery & investment bars
Interesting facts about platinum
- The original International Prototype Kilogram is made from platinum-iridium alloy
- Cisplatin (a platinum compound) has treated millions of cancer patients since the 1970s
- All the platinum ever mined would form a cube about 7 to 8 metres on each side
Platinum was discovered in 1748 by Ulloa in Spain.
Where platinum sits on the periodic table
Platinum is in group 10, period 6. Tap any element to open its page.
Other transition metals
Platinum questions
What is the atomic number of platinum?
Platinum has atomic number 78, so every platinum atom has 78 protons in its nucleus. Its symbol is Pt and its atomic mass is 195.084.
Is platinum a metal?
Platinum is a metal. On the periodic table it is grouped as a transition metal, found in group 10, period 6.
What is the electron configuration of platinum?
The electron configuration of platinum is [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d⁹ 6s¹. Its electrons sit in 6 shells: 2, 8, 18, 32, 17, 1.
What is platinum used for?
Platinum is used for catalytic converters in petrol vehicles, chemotherapy (cisplatin, carboplatin) and fine jewellery & investment bars.
Who discovered platinum?
Platinum was discovered in 1748 by Ulloa in Spain.
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.