How Do We Get It? – Strontium

February 17, 2025 · by sybrinapublishing

The Journey of Strontium: From Earth to the Periodic Table

Have you ever wondered where the elements on the periodic table come from? For instance, let’s dive into the journey of Strontium, a fascinating element with the symbol “Sr” and atomic number “38”. Strontium is more than just a name on the periodic table; it’s a unique element with a story that involves nature, science, and even some cool applications in our daily lives.

Strontium is an alkali metal, positioned in Group 2 of the periodic table, which is also known as the alkaline earth metals. It has a silvery-white appearance and is soft enough to be cut with a knife. When exposed to air, Strontium forms a protective layer of oxide, which helps it resist corrosion—a feature that is essential when it comes to handling and storing this element.

Strontium is not found freely in nature, much like many other elements; it’s primarily sourced from minerals. The most notable strontium-bearing mineral is “strontianite ” (SrCO₃), which is a carbonate, and another important mineral is “celestine” (SrSO₄), which is a sulfate. These minerals are mined from the earth, typically found in sedimentary rocks.

The first step in obtaining Strontium is mining. The ore containing strontium is extracted from the ground, and then it needs to go through several processes to isolate the element. In the case of celestine, the mineral is typically crushed and treated with sulfuric acid in a chemical reaction that produces soluble strontium salts. Following this, the strontium is filtered out and purified through various methods, such as precipitation, to produce the carbonate or hydroxide forms of strontium.

Once extracted and purified, Strontium has a variety of applications. One of the most exciting uses is in the creation of fireworks. Strontium compounds are often used to create vibrant red flames, adding color to the pyrotechnic displays we see during celebrations.

Strontium is also used in the manufacturing of “strontium ferrite”, a vital material in making permanent magnets, which are crucial components in various electronics. Moreover, certain forms of strontium are being investigated for their potential benefits in bone health. Research suggests that strontium ranelate may help prevent osteoporosis, making it a subject of interest in pharmaceutical studies.

So the next time you look at the periodic table and see Strontium, remember that it represents more than just a chemical symbol. It’s a journey from deep within the Earth, through careful mining and extraction, to the colorful fireworks that light up the night sky or the magnets that help power our modern gadgets. Strontium is a testament to how the elements that make up our world have practical and fascinating stories behind them. Understanding these journeys not only makes science more exciting but also connects us to the elements that play a crucial role in our everyday lives!

This article is brought to you by Sybrina Durant, the author of the middle grade picture book, Magical Elements of the Periodic Table Presented Alphabetically By The Elemental Wizards. Learn More. In that book Strontium is presented by the Wizard, Strauna.

Inter-Active Elemental Fantasy-Themed Periodic Table from Magical Elements of the Periodic Table Presented Alphabetically by The Elemental Dragon Clan

Click here to use This Inter-Active Viewer To Learn More About The Elements Each Elemental Represents On This Periodic Table. Want this in a 24″ x 36″ Poster? Click here.