Chromium is a chemical element with the symbol Cr and atomic number 24. It is a complex, brittle metal that appears silvery-gray in color, but when exposed to oxygen, it forms an oxide layer giving it its signature chrome finish. Chromium has many uses due to its unique properties; for example, it’s used in stainless steel alloys which give them their corrosion resistance, as well as being found in plating applications such as car bumpers and wheels. Chromium can also be alloyed with metals like nickel or copper to increase strength and hardness while maintaining flexibility. In addition, chromium compounds are widely used in dyes, paints, pigments, and food additives!
Chromium was discovered by French chemist Louis Nicolas Vauquelin back in 1797, who isolated the element from crocoite (an ore of lead chromate). Since then, chromium has been extensively studied for its wide range of applications across various industries, making it one of the essential elements known today!