Atomic Number
79
Element 79
Gold (Au)
Gold is a chemical element with symbol Au and atomic number 79. In its purest form, it is a bright, slightly reddish yellow, dense, soft, malleable, and ductile metal.
Atomic Mass
196.97 u
Category
Transition Metal
Period
6
Group
Group 11: copper group
Phase
solid
Density
19.3 g/cm3
Electron Shells
2, 8, 18, 32, 18, 1
Atomic Structure
Protons: 79. Electrons: 79. Neutrons: Varies by isotope.
Electron configuration: 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 5s² 4d¹⁰ 5p⁶ 6s¹ 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰
Why Gold Matters
Gold helps connect atomic number 79, transition metal behavior, period 6 trends, and electron shell structure. Its solid phase, atomic mass of 196.97 u, and electron configuration 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 5s² 4d¹⁰ 5p⁶ 6s¹ 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ make it useful for comparing bonding patterns across the periodic table.
Discovery and Occurrence
Gold was discovered Unknown. Gold is a chemical element with symbol Au and atomic number 79. In its purest form, it is a bright, slightly reddish yellow, dense, soft, malleable, and ductile metal.
Safety and Handling Context
Gold 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 Gold?
- Gold has atomic number 79, which means a neutral atom has 79 protons and 79 electrons.
- What is the chemical symbol for Gold?
- The chemical symbol for Gold is Au.
- What category is Gold in?
- Gold is classified as a transition metal and sits in period 6 of the periodic table.
Explore Gold in 3D
Use the interactive table above to rotate atomic models, compare periodic trends, and move from Gold to neighboring elements without losing your place.