vanadiumin

Vanadiumin is not a standard term in chemistry. This article treats vanadium as the subject, discussing its occurrence, chemistry, and common applications.

Vanadium is a transition metal with symbol V and atomic number 23. It exhibits multiple oxidation states from +2 to +5, with +4 and +5 common in oxides. In aqueous solution, vanadate species such as VO4^3- and HVO4^2- predominate depending on pH, and the vanadyl ion VO2+ is a familiar species in acidic media. The element forms several notable compounds, including vanadyl ion VO2+, vanadium(V) oxide (V2O5), and various vanadates.

Natural occurrence: vanadium occurs in minerals such as vanadinite Pb5(VO4)3Cl and carnotite, and can substitute for iron in magnetite and other titanomagnetite rocks. It is typically recovered as a byproduct of mining for other metals and from ore deposits associated with titanomagnetite.

Industrial uses: vanadium is valued as an alloying element in steel to improve strength, hardness, and temperature stability. Vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) serves as a catalyst in the contact process for sulfuric acid production and in various oxidation reactions. Vanadium compounds also find use in ceramics, pigments, and electronic materials.

Energy storage and research: vanadium redox flow batteries employ different oxidation states of vanadium in solution to store and release energy, a technology of interest for grid-scale energy storage. Ongoing research explores additional vanadium compounds for catalysis and electrochemical applications.

Safety and environment: exposure to vanadium compounds can irritate skin, eyes, and lungs, and high levels can be toxic. Proper handling, ventilation, and containment reduce occupational and environmental risks.