Beryllium is a lightweight alkaline earth metal with an atomic number of 4 that has a melting point of 1287°C and boiling point of 2469°C. It has a hexagonal crystal structure and is commonly used in alloys with copper for golf clubs and tools. Beryllium was originally discovered in 1797 and is used in the making of missiles and emeralds due to its properties.

1. Beryllium
By KC Welsh

2. General Information
• Atomic Number: 4
• Symbol: Be
• Atomic Mass: 9
• Melting Point: 1287°C
• Boiling Point: 2469°C
• Classification: Alkaline Earth Metal
• Density: 1.848 g/cm cubed
• Discovery date: 1797

3. Atomic Tidbits
• Crystal Structure: Hexagonal
• Number of Neutrons: 5
• Number of Protons/Electrons:
4
• State of Matter: solid

4. Uses
• When in a compound with silicon, emerald and aquamarine is
made.
• Beryllium is often used in copper alloys for golf clubs and
wrenches.
• Beryllium is also used in the making of missiles.

5. Fun Facts
• Beryllium was originally
called glucinium.
• It is sweet to the taste,
however ingesting beryllium
can cause berylliosis.
Berylliosis can lead to lung
cancer.
• Neutrons were discovered
when alpha particles
bombarded beryllium atoms.