Astatine (At) has atomic number 85 and is classified as a halogen. It sits in Group 17, period 6 of the periodic table. Its practical relevance includes research and experimental targeted alpha therapy because of its short-lived radioactive isotopes.
ELEMENT DATA
Quick facts
#Atomic number85
AaSymbolAt Relative
◉Atomic mass[210] State at room temperature Solid
⌘Group17
Position in the periodic table
Halogens are reactive p-block elements that commonly form -1 ions and many important salts or organic compounds. Their industrial value is substantial, but elemental forms and some compounds can require strict corrosion, toxicity or containment controls.
Astatine belongs to period 6. Its position helps explain recurring trends such as atomic size, bonding behavior, oxidation states and the way it interacts with neighboring elements.
Why Astatine matters
In engineering and technology, astatine is associated with research and experimental targeted alpha therapy because of its short-lived radioactive isotopes. The importance of the element may come from the pure element itself, from compounds containing it, or from its role as an alloying, electronic, catalytic or nuclear material.
Engineering and scientific context
Material behavior should never be inferred from the element name alone. Purity, isotope composition, crystal structure, processing history, temperature and the surrounding chemical environment can all change performance. In alloys and compounds, the contribution of astatine depends on concentration and interaction with the other constituents.
Safety and handling
Astatine is radioactive, so any practical work involving it requires specialist radiological controls, approved facilities and isotope-specific procedures.
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