Name:  Gallium

Atomic Symbol and Mass Number: Ga [31]

Electron Configuration: 3d    4s    4p

Atomic Radii: 187 pm

Electron Affinity: 28.9 kJ mol-1

Oxidation states: 3, 2, 1, -1, -2, -4, -5

Electronegativity value: 1.81

Elemental Group: Boron Group

Uses and properties:

• Silvery, glass-like, soft metal

• Solid gallium is brittle and is a poorer electrical conductor than lead

• Solid metal fractures like that of a turtle shell

• Second largest liquid range of any element

• One of the few metals that is liquid near room temperature and melts in the hand

• Expands as it freezes

• Low melting alloys used medical thermometers as substitute for mercury

• Gallium arsenide is used in in the production of  laser diodes, light-emitting diodes and solar panels

 

Lewis diagram: