Platinide

Platinide is a shorthand term for heavy Group 8A (see periodic table of elements) metals that share some of the physical and chemical properties of platinum. These properties include corrosion resistance (through the rapid formation of a thin, durable oxide layer), selective chemical reactivity, a relatively high melting point, good mechanical strength, and good electrical conductivity. All are very rare in the Earth's crust, though somewhat more common in extraterrestrial sources like meteorites, suggesting a degree of sequestration in the planet's deeper layers due to high density and atomic weight.

Additional recommended knowledge

Daily Visual Balance Check

Daily Sensitivity Test

Weighing the right way

The elements of this group (in ascending order by atomic number) are ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, osmium, iridium, and platinum.