A Visual Encyclopedia of the Periodic Table

81

Transition Metals

Rhodium

Rh

45

45 45 58

State: Solid

Discovery: 1803

Forms Uses

This golden mineral

is defined by its needle-

shaped crystals.

These fibreglass strands

are made by passing

molten glass through

rhodium-enriched trays.

This rhodium-alloy

reflector provides

a bright light.

Parts of this

microscope are coated

with rhodium and can

resist corrosion.

Fibreglass production

Rhodium-plated

microscope

Rhodium-plated

jewellery

He

ad

lig

ht^

ref

lec

tor

The rhodium plating

prevents jewellery from

losing its shine.

This metal is

shiny and silvery

when pure.

The rosy red colour of one of its

compounds inspired the name rhodium.

The Greek word rhodon means “rose-coloured”.

Rhodium is unreactive and does not form

compounds easily. It is a rare metal. Most

of the pure form is extracted when platinum

is mined. Pure rhodium is hard and is used to

toughen precious jewellery, mirrors, and optical

devices, such as microscopes. It is mainly used

in the production of catalytic convertors for cars.

Fibreglass, which is often found in protective

gear – like helmets – also contains rhodium.

Mi

lle

ri

te

re

fin

ed

in

a^ la

boratory

Pu

re

rh

od

ium

pellet

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