What is the importance of iridium metal?

Answer 1

Well, it is extremely corrosion resistant (resistant to all acids, including aqua regia), and basically is only broken down by molten salts (NaCl, NaCN, etc). It is also possibly the densest element known (Ir and Os are controversial due to lattice structures). Most interesting fact is that it is quite a rare element on earth, but very abundant in asteroids and meteors. The "Ir Spike" at the K-T boundary is evidence that a meteor collision with earth is what cause the dinosaurs (and many other species) to become extinct. Hope this helps.

Answer 2

Iridium is important because it is the most corrosion-resistant metal known to man. It is not affected by high temperatures, acids, bases, or most strong chemicals. Iridium may also be a key element in the puzzle of dinosaur extinction. Scientists are searching for iridium in the soil to track the impact of a giant meteor with the Earth 65 million years ago.

Answer 3

Iridium is important because of its high melting point, corrosion resistance, and ability to catalyze chemical reactions. It is used in spark plugs, crucibles for materials processing, and in various high-tech applications such as in the production of computer hard drives. Additionally, iridium is a crucial component in some types of fuel cells and in the production of specialty alloys.