Atomic Number
4
Element 4
Beryllium (Be)
Beryllium is a relatively rare element in the universe. It is a divalent element which occurs naturally only in combination with other elements to form minerals.
Atomic Mass
9.0122 u
Category
Alkaline Earth Metal
Period
2
Group
Group 2: alkaline earth metals
Phase
solid
Density
1.85 g/cm3
Electron Shells
2, 2
Atomic Structure
Protons: 4. Electrons: 4. Neutrons: Varies by isotope.
Electron configuration: 1s² 2s²
Why Beryllium Matters
Beryllium helps connect atomic number 4, alkaline earth metal behavior, period 2 trends, and electron shell structure. Its solid phase, atomic mass of 9.0122 u, and electron configuration 1s² 2s² make it useful for comparing bonding patterns across the periodic table.
Discovery and Occurrence
Beryllium was discovered 1798 by Louis Nicolas Vauquelin. Beryllium is a relatively rare element in the universe. It is a divalent element which occurs naturally only in combination with other elements to form minerals.
Safety and Handling Context
Beryllium is presented here for learning and comparison. Pure elements and laboratory compounds can have hazards that depend on dose, form, and setting.
Related Elements
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the atomic number of Beryllium?
- Beryllium has atomic number 4, which means a neutral atom has 4 protons and 4 electrons.
- What is the chemical symbol for Beryllium?
- The chemical symbol for Beryllium is Be.
- What category is Beryllium in?
- Beryllium is classified as a alkaline earth metal and sits in period 2 of the periodic table.
Explore Beryllium in 3D
Use the interactive table above to rotate atomic models, compare periodic trends, and move from Beryllium to neighboring elements without losing your place.