The hardest, strongest, and most dense element in nature is generally considered to be osmium. Osmium is a transition metal and belongs to the platinum group of elements. Here are some reasons why osmium is regarded as special compared to other elements:
Hardness: Osmium has an extremely high hardness, making it one of the hardest known elements. Its hardness is primarily attributed to the strong bonding between its atoms.
Density: Osmium is the densest naturally occurring element. It has a density of about 22.6 grams per cubic centimeter, which is over twice as dense as lead. This high density is due to the compact arrangement of its atoms.
Stability: Osmium is highly resistant to corrosion and oxidation, which contributes to its stability. It can withstand harsh conditions and has a high melting point of around 3,033 degrees Celsius (5,491 degrees Fahrenheit).
Industrial Applications: Owing to its unique properties, osmium has various practical applications. It is used in the production of specialized alloys, particularly those requiring high hardness and resistance to wear, such as fountain pen tips, instrument pivots, electrical contacts, and high-stress bearings. Osmium is also utilized in the field of microscopy for staining samples and in certain laboratory equipment.
It is important to note that while osmium possesses exceptional hardness, strength, and density, it is not the most valuable or widely used element. Its rarity and high production costs limit its widespread use, and other elements like iron, aluminum, and carbon have broader applications in industries and everyday life.