Atomic Number
46
Element 46
Palladium (Pd)
Palladium is a chemical element with symbol Pd and atomic number 46. It is a rare and lustrous silvery-white metal discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston.
Atomic Mass
106.42 u
Category
Transition Metal
Period
5
Group
Group 10: nickel group
Phase
solid
Density
12.023 g/cm3
Electron Shells
2, 8, 18, 18
Atomic Structure
Protons: 46. Electrons: 46. Neutrons: Varies by isotope.
Electron configuration: 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 4d¹⁰
Why Palladium Matters
Palladium helps connect atomic number 46, transition metal behavior, period 5 trends, and electron shell structure. Its solid phase, atomic mass of 106.42 u, and electron configuration 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 4d¹⁰ make it useful for comparing bonding patterns across the periodic table.
Discovery and Occurrence
Palladium was discovered 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston. Palladium is a chemical element with symbol Pd and atomic number 46. It is a rare and lustrous silvery-white metal discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston.
Safety and Handling Context
Palladium 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 Palladium?
- Palladium has atomic number 46, which means a neutral atom has 46 protons and 46 electrons.
- What is the chemical symbol for Palladium?
- The chemical symbol for Palladium is Pd.
- What category is Palladium in?
- Palladium is classified as a transition metal and sits in period 5 of the periodic table.
Explore Palladium in 3D
Use the interactive table above to rotate atomic models, compare periodic trends, and move from Palladium to neighboring elements without losing your place.