Daily Current Affairs : 22-November-2023
A recent discovery by a team of researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Ropar, has unveiled the presence of tantalum, a rare metal, in the sand of the Sutlej River in Punjab.
What is Tantalum and its Properties?
Tantalum, marked by its atomic number 73, is a rare and significant metal with unique properties that contribute to its diverse applications. Key properties include:
- Grey, heavy, and extremely hard
- High corrosion resistance due to the formation of a stubborn oxide layer when exposed to air
- Ductile nature, allowing it to be stretched into thin wires without breaking
- Immunity to chemical attacks at temperatures below 150°C, except for specific environments like hydrofluoric acid
Discovery of Tantalum:
Discovered in 1802 by Swedish chemist Anders Gustaf Ekenberg, tantalum derives its name from Tantalus, a Greek mythological figure, the rich but wicked king of a town above Mount Sipylus in Anatolia.
Uses of Tantalum:
Tantalum’s versatility is evident in its various applications:
- Electronic Sector:
- Widely used in capacitors for electronic devices like smartphones and laptops.
- Capacitors made from tantalum excel in storing more electricity in smaller sizes with minimal leakage.
- Substitute of Platinum:
- Frequently utilized as a substitute for platinum due to its high melting point, offering a cost-effective alternative.
- Various Components and Equipment:
- Essential in manufacturing components for chemical plants, nuclear power plants, and aerospace applications.
- Used in missiles and airplanes for its durability.
- Medical Applications:
- Tantalum’s non-reactive nature with bodily fluids makes it ideal for producing surgical equipment and implants, such as artificial joints.
Important Points:
Discovery in Sutlej River Sand:
- Researchers from IIT, Ropar found tantalum, a rare metal, in Punjab’s Sutlej River sand.
Tantalum’s Properties:
- Atomic number 73, grey, heavy, and highly corrosion-resistant.
- Ductile nature allows stretching into thin wires.
- Immune to chemical attacks below 150°C, except for specific environments.
Discovery and Naming:
- Discovered in 1802 by Anders Gustaf Ekenberg, named after Greek mythological figure Tantalus.
Electronic Sector:
- Prominent use in capacitors for electronic devices.
- Capacitors made from tantalum store more electricity in smaller sizes with minimal leakage.
Substitute for Platinum:
- High melting point makes tantalum a cost-effective substitute for platinum.
Various Applications:
- Used in chemical plants, nuclear power plants, airplanes, and missiles.
- High durability and resistance to bodily fluids make it suitable for surgical equipment and implants.
Why In News
A team of researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Ropar has discovered the presence of tantalum, a rare metal, in the Sutlej river sand in Punjab, shedding light on the region’s unique geological composition and potential mineral resources.
MCQs about Sutlej River Sands Yield Tantalum
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What did researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Ropar discover in the Sutlej river sand in Punjab?
A. Gold
B. Tantalum
C. Platinum
D. Silver
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Who is credited with the discovery of tantalum?
A. Marie Curie
B. Anders Gustaf Ekenberg
C. Dmitri Mendeleev
D. Antoine Lavoisier
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In which sector is tantalum most prominently used?
A. Agriculture
B. Automotive
C. Electronics
D. Construction
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Why is tantalum considered a substitute for platinum in some applications?
A. It is more abundant
B. It has a lower melting point
C. It is less durable
D. It has a high melting point
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