Element Story - Iridium

Iridium is element number 77, a transition metal belonging to Group 9 of the periodic table and a member of the platinum group metals. It is a silvery-white, lustrous, very hard, and corrosion-resistant metal that remains chemically stable even at high temperatures. Its density is extremely high, making it one of the densest elements along with osmium. It is very rare in nature, typically found in platinum or nickel ores alongside other platinum group metals. Due to its resistance to high temperatures and corrosion, iridium is used in special alloys, electrical contacts, and high-temperature equipment. Alloys of platinum and iridium, known for their durability, are also utilized in precision mechanical parts. The radioactive isotope Iridium-192 emits gamma rays and is used in industrial non-destructive testing and in medical radiation therapy. In space, it is generated from events like supernova explosions and neutron star mergers. The unusually high concentration of iridium found in certain geological strata on Earth is studied as evidence related to asteroid impacts.