plaatina

Plaatina is a spelling variant commonly associated with the chemical element platinum. Platinum is a dense, malleable, silvery-white precious metal with the symbol Pt and atomic number 78. It is part of the platinum group metals and is known for its high resistance to corrosion and one of the highest melting points among metals.

Platinum has several notable properties. It is extremely ductile and can be drawn into fine wires or hammered into thin sheets. Its melting point is about 1768°C, and it has a density of around 21.45 g/cm³. In addition to its stability in air and many chemicals, platinum forms stable alloys with other metals, which broadens its practical applications.

Occurrence and production are closely tied to nickel and copper mining. Platinum is typically recovered as a byproduct of nickel and copper ores and is primarily sourced from regions such as the Bushveld Complex in South Africa, Norilsk in Russia, Sudbury in Canada, and the Great Dyke in Zimbabwe. Refining involves separating platinum from other platinum group metals and refining it to high purity for industrial use.

Uses of platinum are diverse. The largest single use is as a catalyst in automotive catalytic converters, where it promotes chemical reactions that reduce harmful emissions. It is also used in jewelry for its luster and durability, in electrical contacts, laboratory equipment, chemical reactors, and various electronic and medical applications due to its stability and resistance to corrosion.

History and etymology: the name platinum derives from the Spanish platina, meaning “little silver,” given in the 18th century because it resembled silver but was rarer and harder to extract.

Safety and environmental considerations: platinum compounds can be toxic, and inhaling fine metal or compound dust poses health risks. Mining and refining have environmental impacts, including energy use and waste management; recycling of platinum-containing products mitigates these effects.