Periodic Table Guide
Cobalt (Co) has atomic number 27 and is classified as a transition metal. It sits in Group 9, period 4 of the periodic table. Its practical relevance includes superalloys, rechargeable batteries, hard metals, pigments and permanent magnets.
Quick facts
Position in the periodic table
Transition metals occupy the d-block and are central to structural alloys, catalysis, electrical systems and high-temperature engineering. Many display multiple oxidation states and form useful intermetallics or complex alloys.
Cobalt belongs to period 4. Its position helps explain recurring trends such as atomic size, bonding behavior, oxidation states and the way it interacts with neighboring elements.
Why Cobalt matters
In engineering and technology, cobalt is associated with superalloys, rechargeable batteries, hard metals, pigments and permanent magnets. 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 cobalt depends on concentration and interaction with the other constituents.
Safety and handling
The hazards associated with Cobalt depend on its physical form, purity, compounds, process temperature and exposure route. Engineering decisions should use the applicable safety data sheet and project-specific risk assessment.
Related elements
Rhodium (Rh) · Iridium (Ir) · Meitnerium (Mt) · Iron (Fe)
Reference sources
For authoritative element data and current standard atomic-weight guidance, consult the Royal Society of Chemistry Periodic Table and the IUPAC Periodic Table of the Elements.
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