Osmium Properties and Applications

Osmium is the densest metal, discovered in 1803. It is rare and has unique properties, such as a high melting point and brittleness. While it is non-reactive in solid form, finely divided osmium can be hazardous, forming osmium tetroxide. Osmium is used in high-wear applications and research, but its industrial demand is low, making it the cheapest precious metal despite its rarity.

What is the melting point of osmium in degrees Celsius?

• 9054

• 5000

• 5491

• 3033

Which group and period is osmium located in on the periodic table?

• Group 5, Period 7

• Group 6, Period 8

• Group 7, Period 5

• Group 8, Period 6

What is one of the primary uses of osmium in its pure state?

• Construction

• Medicine

• Jewelry

• Ballpoint pens

How much osmium is mined annually compared to gold?

• 500 kg of osmium, 3000 tons of gold

• 3000 kg of osmium, 500 tons of gold

• 500 tons of osmium, 3000 kg of gold

• 3000 tons of osmium, 500 kg of gold

What happens when osmium is finely divided?

• It becomes non-reactive

• It forms osmium tetroxide

• It melts

• It becomes a liquid

What is a potential health effect of inhaling osmium tetroxide?

• Improved vision

• Coughing and shortness of breath

• Enhanced taste

• Increased energy

What is the primary use of osmium tetroxide in microscopy?

• As a light source

• As a staining agent

• As a magnifier

• As a lens cleaner

What is the approximate cost of osmium per ounce?

• $900

• $200

• $400

• $1000

Why is osmium considered the cheapest precious metal?

• Because it is abundant

• Because it is easy to mine

• Due to its lack of use in industry

• Due to its high demand

How should osmium be handled to ensure safety?

• In a finely divided state

• In its solid, non-powder form

• In a gaseous state

• In a liquid state