The element with the greatest density on the periodic table is osmium (Os). Osmium has a density of approximately 22.59 grams per cubic centimeter, making it the densest naturally occurring element known.
Density is defined as mass per unit volume, and osmium’s high density is mainly due to its atomic structure. It is a heavy metal with a high atomic weight and tightly packed atomic structure, which contributes to its remarkable density. In the periodic table, osmium is located in the transition metals section and is known for its hardness and brittleness.
Interestingly, another element that is often mentioned in discussions about density is iridium (Ir), which has a density very close to that of osmium, around 22.56 grams per cubic centimeter. However, osmium holds the title for the highest density. Understanding the density of elements is important in various fields, including materials science and chemistry, as it can influence the selection of materials for different applications.