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Primary XPS region: Zr3d
Overlapping regions: B1s
Binding energies of common chemical states:
Chemical state | Binding energy Zr3d5/2 |
---|---|
Zr metal | 178.9 eV |
Zr sub-oxides | 179-180.5 eV |
ZrO | 182.3 eV |
Zr(IV) silicate2 | 182.7 eV |
Experimental information
N/A
Interpretation of XPS spectra
General comments
About this element
Symbol: Zr
Date of discovery: 1789
Name origin: Arabic zarkûn
Appearance: silvery white
Discoverer: Martin Heinrich Klaproth
Obtained from: zircon
Melting point: 1852 K
Boiling point: 4490 K
Density[kg/m3]: 6.52
Molar volume: 14.02 × 10-6 m3/mol
Protons/Electrons: 40
Neutrons: 51
Shell structure: 2,8,18,10,2
Electron configuration: [Kr]4d25s2
Oxidation state: 4
Crystal structure: hexagonal
At elevated temperatures, this silvery white metal can ignite spontaneously in air. It is found in S-type stars and has been identified in our own sun, as well. Zirconium is used in flash bulbs for photography, explosive primers, and lamp filaments. It is also used as the main ingredient of cubic zirconium stones. Similar in appearance to diamonds, cubic zirconium stones are sold as an affordable alternative to the more precious diamond. Although zirconium does not play a biological role, human tissue does assimilate the element, making it suitable for some artificial joints and limbs.