Tin - Sn
| Atomic number | 50 |
|---|---|
| Group / period / block | 14 / 5 / p |
| Relative atomic mass | 118.710 |
| Density at 20 °C | 7.287 g/cm3 |
| Melting point | 231.928 °C |
| Boiling point | 2586 °C |
| Electron configuration | [Kr] 4d10 5s2 5p2 |
Tin
Tin is a soft, pliable metal used to coat steel against corrosion and in alloys such as bronze and solder. Tin salts and tin oxides also have industrial uses. At temperatures below about 13 °C, metallic white tin can gradually transform into brittle grey tin.
Water chemistry distinguishes inorganic tin species, including tin(II) and tin(IV), from organotin compounds. These forms differ in mobility and potential environmental effects; a result reported only as “tin” may not be enough to guide treatment.
Tin in water treatment
Water-treatment context: For a tin-bearing process stream, determine whether tin is dissolved or particle-associated and whether organotin compounds are present. pH, oxidation state, ligands and other metals influence treatment selection. Characterize the resulting solids or spent media as well as the treated water.
Elemental substances and dissolved or gaseous species behave differently in water. Water chemistry and the exact chemical form must be considered when assessing treatment.
Back to the periodic table of elements
Sources and further reading
Tin page last reviewed: by Lenntech.