Atomic Number
104
Element 104
Rutherfordium (Rf)
Rutherfordium is a synthetic chemical element with symbol Rf and atomic number 104, named in honor of physicist Ernest Rutherford. It is a transactinide element in the fourth transition series of the periodic table.
Atomic Mass
267 u
Category
Transition Metal
Period
7
Group
Group 4: titanium group
Phase
solid
Density
23.2 g/cm3
Electron Shells
2, 8, 18, 32, 32, 10, 2
Atomic Structure
Protons: 104. Electrons: 104. Neutrons: Varies by isotope.
Electron configuration: 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 5s² 4d¹⁰ 5p⁶ 6s² 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6p⁶ 7s² 5f¹⁴ 6d²
Why Rutherfordium Matters
Rutherfordium helps connect atomic number 104, transition metal behavior, period 7 trends, and electron shell structure. Its solid phase, atomic mass of 267 u, and electron configuration 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 5s² 4d¹⁰ 5p⁶ 6s² 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6p⁶ 7s² 5f¹⁴ 6d² make it useful for comparing bonding patterns across the periodic table.
Discovery and Occurrence
Rutherfordium was discovered 1969 by Georgy Flerov, Albert Ghiorso. Rutherfordium is a synthetic chemical element with symbol Rf and atomic number 104, named in honor of physicist Ernest Rutherford. It is a transactinide element in the fourth transition series of the periodic table.
Safety and Handling Context
Rutherfordium 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 Rutherfordium?
- Rutherfordium has atomic number 104, which means a neutral atom has 104 protons and 104 electrons.
- What is the chemical symbol for Rutherfordium?
- The chemical symbol for Rutherfordium is Rf.
- What category is Rutherfordium in?
- Rutherfordium is classified as a transition metal and sits in period 7 of the periodic table.
Explore Rutherfordium in 3D
Use the interactive table above to rotate atomic models, compare periodic trends, and move from Rutherfordium to neighboring elements without losing your place.