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Which Metal Has the Highest Melting Point?

ChemistryMaterials

Quick Answer

Tungsten has the highest melting point of any metal, at 3,422 Β°C (6,192 Β°F).

The Full Story

Tungsten (symbol W, from the German "Wolfram") melts at 3,422 Β°C, the highest of any pure metal and the second-highest of any element after carbon (which sublimes at about 3,642 Β°C under normal pressure). This extreme melting point results from tungsten very strong metallic bonds and its half-filled 5d electron shell, which resists disruption. Tungsten is used in incandescent light-bulb filaments, rocket nozzles, armour-piercing ammunition, and radiation shielding. Its density of 19.3 g/cmΒ³ is nearly identical to gold and almost twice that of lead.

Key Facts

1.Tungsten was first isolated in 1783 by Spanish chemists Juan JosΓ© and Fausto Elhuyar.
2.The filament in a standard incandescent bulb operates at about 2,500 Β°C β€” still well below tungsten melting point.
3.China produces about 80% of the world tungsten supply.

YouTube Angle

Suggested video title for this topic:

"Tungsten β€” The Metal That Laughs at Heat"