Eka-aluminum is another name for the element gallium, which is represented by the symbol Ga and has the atomic number 31.
Gallium: The Element Known as Eka-Aluminum
Eka-aluminum was the name given to gallium by Dmitri Mendeleev, who predicted its existence in 1871 using the periodic table. He gave this name because he predicted that gallium would have similar properties to aluminum and would be one position below aluminum on the periodic table.
Properties of Gallium
- Atomic Number: 31
- Symbol: Ga
- Physical State: Solid at room temperature but melts slightly above, at 29.76 °C (85.57 °F). This low melting point allows it to melt in your hand.
- Color: Solid gallium is a blue-gray metal. Very pure gallium displays a stunning silvery color.
- Crystal Structure: It has an orthorhombic crystalline structure.
- Reactivity: Gallium is not very reactive under normal conditions.
- Uses: Gallium is used in electronics, semiconductors, and solar cells. It is also used in some thermometers because of its low melting point.
Mendeleev's Predictions
Mendeleev's accurate predictions about the existence and properties of gallium based on his periodic table are a testament to his groundbreaking work. Here are some of the properties that he had predicted about Eka-aluminum, which were later confirmed when Gallium was discovered:
- Atomic weight: He predicted that Eka-aluminum would have an atomic weight of approximately 68; the actual atomic weight of Gallium is 69.7.
- Density: Predicted to be 5.9 g/cm³; the actual density is 5.91 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: Predicted to be low, as it is indeed at 29.76 °C.
Conclusion
Therefore, Eka-aluminum and gallium refer to the same element, Ga, with atomic number 31. It was named Eka-aluminum based on its predicted position and properties relative to aluminum on the periodic table before it was officially discovered and named.
