- Definition of Ni
Ni is the abbreviation for Nickel, a chemical element with the symbol Ni and atomic number 28. Nickel belongs to the transition metals category, located in group 10 of the periodic table. Nickel has an average atomic mass of 58.69. Nickel atoms have 28 electrons, 28 protons, and the number of neutrons varies depending on the isotopes, the most common being Ni-58 with 30 neutrons. The most commonly seen ion structure of Ni is Ni2+ when it loses 2 electrons.
- Properties of Ni
2.1 Physical properties of Ni: Nickel forms hexagonal crystals, has a silver-white color, and is odorless. Nickel is insoluble in water and has a neutral pH.
2.2 Chemical properties of Ni: Nickel resists oxidation at room temperature. However, when the temperature rises, nickel can react with oxygen to form nickel oxide NiO.
4.1 Laboratory preparation of Ni: In the laboratory, nickel is often prepared from nickel salts through the process of electrolysis.
4.2 Industrial preparation of Ni: Industrially, nickel is often extracted from nickel ores such as pentlandite through the process of acid distillation and smelting.