: It is exceptionally hard and brittle, making it difficult to machine or shape without alloying it with other metals like platinum. Global Supply and Scarcity
The name "iridium" is derived from the Latin word iris , meaning . This name was chosen because iridium salts are remarkably colorful, ranging from deep reds and yellows to vibrant greens and blues. Key Physical and Chemical Properties iridum
Iridium: The Rainbow Element and Earth’s Scarcest Metal Iridium (atomic symbol: , atomic number: 77 ) is arguably the most extraordinary member of the periodic table. Often referred to as a "noble metal," it is the most corrosion-resistant material known to science and ranks as the second densest element, surpassed only slightly by osmium. Despite being one of the rarest elements in the Earth’s crust—occurring at only 0.000003 parts per million—it plays a vital role in everything from deep-space communications to the future of green energy. Discovery and Etymology : It is exceptionally hard and brittle, making
: It is nearly twice as dense as lead and slightly denser than gold. Key Physical and Chemical Properties Iridium: The Rainbow