Definition of the Promethium Element
A radioactive metallic element of the rare-earth group obtained as a fission product of uranium or from neutron-irradiated neodymium. Promethium is not stable so it undergoes radioactive decay. The Atomic Number of this element is 61 and the Element Symbol is Pm.

Origin / Meaning of the name Promethium
The name originates from Prometheus from Greek mythology, who stole the fire of the sky and gave it to mankind.

The Discovery of Promethium
Promethium was discovered by Jacob A. Marinsky, Lawrence E. Glendenin and Charles D. Coryell in 1946

Facts about the History of the Discovery of Promethium Element
Properties within each individual group are similar, but nevertheless vary within a group. Generally chemical activity decreases as the period increases a non-metal group and increases as the period increases within a metal group. The first element in a group is always an active metal, the last is always an inactive non-metal.

History of the Periodic Table
Check out the brief History of the Periodic Table which details dates and the names of famous scientists and chemists who contributed to the development of the Periodic Table.

Occurrence of the Promethium Element
Promethium does not naturally occur on earth
Identified in the spectrum of the star HR465 in Andromeda.

Abundances of the element in different environments
% in Universe N/A
% in Sun None
% in Meteorites None
% in Earth's Crust None
% in Oceans None
% in Humans None

Associated Uses of Promethium
Nuclear batteries
Light sources

The Properties of the Promethium Element
Name of Element : Promethium
Symbol: Pm
Atomic Number: 61
Atomic Mass: (145.0) amu
Melting Point: Unknown
Boiling Point: Unknown
Number of Protons/Electrons: 61
Number of Neutrons: 84
Crystal Structure: Hexagonal
Density @ 293 K: 6.475 g/cm3
Color: Unknown

Promethium as on the Periodic Table
Check out Promethium on the Periodic Table which arranges each chemical element according to its atomic number, as based on the Periodic Law, so that chemical elements with similar properties are in the same column. Our Periodic Table is simple to use - just click on the symbol for Promethium as on the Periodic Table for additional information and for an instant comparison of the Atomic Weight, Melting Point, Boiling Point and Mass - G/cc with any other element. An invaluable source of facts and information as a Chemistry reference guide.

What is Promethium - IUPAC and the Modern Standardised Periodic Table
The Standardised Periodic Table in use today was agreed by the International Union of Pure Applied Chemistry, IUPAC, in 1985 and now recognises more periods and elements than Dimitri  Mendeleev knew in his day in his day but still all fitting into his concept of  the "Periodic Table" in which Promethium is just one element that can be found.

Learn about what is Promethium with these fast facts...
These articles contain facts and information relating to Promethium and each of the other elements including the Periodic Symbol,  group, classification, properties and atomic number which is often referred to as the Periodic Table Number. Test your knowledge of chemistry and the Periodic Table by completing the Element Symbols and Atomic Numbers on our Blank Periodic Table. Chemistry students will also find a helpful section on Chemical Formulas.