Atomic Number
112
Element 112
Copernicium (Cn)
Copernicium is a chemical element with symbol Cn and atomic number 112. It is named after astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. As a synthetic element, it can be created in a laboratory but is not found in nature. Calculations suggest it behaves like an extremely volatile metal, likely gaseous at room temperature.
Atomic Mass
285 u
Category
Transition Metal
Period
7
Group
Group 12: zinc group
Phase
Predicted gas
Density
~23.7 (predicted) g/cm3
Electron Shells
2, 8, 18, 32, 32, 18, 2
Atomic Structure
Protons: 112. Electrons: 112. Neutrons: Varies by isotope.
Electron configuration: 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 5s² 4d¹⁰ 5p⁶ 6s² 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6p⁶ 7s² 5f¹⁴ 6d¹⁰
Why Copernicium Matters
Copernicium helps connect atomic number 112, transition metal behavior, period 7 trends, and electron shell structure. Its Predicted gas phase, atomic mass of 285 u, and electron configuration 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 5s² 4d¹⁰ 5p⁶ 6s² 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6p⁶ 7s² 5f¹⁴ 6d¹⁰ make it useful for comparing bonding patterns across the periodic table.
Discovery and Occurrence
Copernicium was discovered 1996 by Sigurd Hofmann, Paul Armbruster. Copernicium is a chemical element with symbol Cn and atomic number 112. It is named after astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. As a synthetic element, it can be created in a laboratory but is not found in nature. Calculations suggest it behaves like an extremely volatile metal, likely gaseous at room temperature.
Safety and Handling Context
Copernicium has radioactive isotopes or is commonly discussed with radioactive materials. Use this page as an educational reference; real samples require qualified supervision and controlled handling.
Related Elements
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the atomic number of Copernicium?
- Copernicium has atomic number 112, which means a neutral atom has 112 protons and 112 electrons.
- What is the chemical symbol for Copernicium?
- The chemical symbol for Copernicium is Cn.
- What category is Copernicium in?
- Copernicium is classified as a transition metal and sits in period 7 of the periodic table.
Explore Copernicium in 3D
Use the interactive table above to rotate atomic models, compare periodic trends, and move from Copernicium to neighboring elements without losing your place.