
Chemistry of platinum
Platinum is a rare, valuable metal known for its stability and resistance to corrosion, making it ideal for catalytic converters, jewelry, and industrial applications. Chemically, it is a transition metal with the ability to easily change oxidation states, allowing it to facilitate chemical reactions without being consumed. Platinum's atoms are tightly packed in its crystal structure, providing durability. Its inertness means it doesn't react easily with most substances, making it highly stable. This combination of stability, catalytic ability, and rarity explains its importance in technology, medicine, and jewelry.