Wikijunior:The Elements/Strontium
Strontium is the chemical element with symbol Sr and atomic number 38. It reacts with other elements very easily.
What does it look, feel, taste, or smell like?
[edit | edit source]strontium is a soft silver-white yellowish metallic element that is highly chemically reactive.
How was it discovered?
[edit | edit source]Strontium was found by Adair Crawford in 1790 in a mine near Strontian, Scotland. At that time, scientists thought strontium and barium were the same element.
Where did its name come from?
[edit | edit source]Strontium is named after the Scottish village of Strontian, where it was discovered in the ores of the lead mines.
Did You Know?
- Strontium has silvery white color, and it turns into yellow when exposed to air
- It is softer than calcium and harder than barium.
- Primary use for strontium was in glass for colour television cathode-ray tubes, where it prevented X-ray emission.
Where is it found?
[edit | edit source]It is found naturally on Earth and is mined.
What are its uses?
[edit | edit source]Strontium salts are used in fireworks and flares for a red color. Strontium chloride is an ingredient in toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
Is it dangerous?
[edit | edit source]It is not dangerous to health. Strontium can't harm humans but if you inhale it while it's in the chemical form, it can be very harmful for you.