Add new comment

Thallium

81
Tl
Thallos
Thallium

This highly toxic element got its name from the Greek word thallós, which translates into "green twig" because of its characteristic green spectral line. That means it turns flames into green when burning. Therefore it was used for green emergency flares. Other uses are in special optical glasses and in rat poison.

Tags: 

Thallium in an ampoule under protective atmosphere:

Thallium pieces in ampoule

The characteristic green spectral line:

Thallium spectrum visible