Which f-block element in the periodic table is represented by the Greek symbol 'alpha' and the metallic 'rays'?

The correct answer is Actinium.

Key Points

• Actinium:-
  • The f-block element represented by the Greek symbol 'alpha' and the metallic 'rays' is Actinium, which has the atomic number 89 and belongs to the group 3 of the periodic table.
  • Actinium is a radioactive element that was discovered in 1899 by Andrundefined-Louis Debierne and named after the Greek word 'aktinos', meaning ray or beam, due to its high radioactivity.
  • Actinium is a silvery-white metal that tarnishes in air and reacts with water and acids. It has no stable isotopes and its most stable isotope, Actinium-227, has a half-life of 21.8 years.
  • Actinium is used in nuclear medicine for cancer treatment and as a neutron source in scientific research. 

 Additional Information

• Lanthanum:-
  • It is a soft, silvery-white metal that belongs to the lanthanide series and is used in the production of high-refractive-index glass, as well as in catalysts, electrodes, and other applications.
• Rhenium:-
  • It is a dense, silvery-white metal that belongs to the group 7 of the periodic table and is used in high-temperature alloys, thermocouples, and catalysts.
• Tungsten:-
  • It is a hard, dense, gray metal that belongs to the group 6 of the periodic table and is used in filaments, electrical contacts, and other applications.