What is the symbol of the element Tungsten?

Appeared in: RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

The chemical symbol for the element Tungsten is W.
This symbol is derived from the element's other name, Wolfram, which originates from German.
This is a common convention where element symbols are based on their names in other languages, such as Latin or German, rather than English.
Tungsten has an atomic number of 74 and is known for having the highest melting point of all elements.

Option A: T is not the symbol for Tungsten. It is sometimes used to represent Tritium, an isotope of Hydrogen.
Option B: Wn is not a valid chemical symbol for any element in the periodic table.
Option C: Tn is not the symbol for Tungsten. It was a historical symbol for 'Thoron', an isotope of Radon (Rn-220).

Visual 1: Image - The periodic table with Tungsten (W) highlighted to show its position in Group 6.
Visual 2: Infographic - A card displaying the details for the element Tungsten: Symbol (W), Atomic Number (74), Name (Tungsten/Wolfram), and key properties like its high melting point.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Chemical Symbols of Elements as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding periodic table symbols is fundamental to chemistry and many scientific disciplines, including pharmacology and materials science.
The case of Tungsten (W/Wolfram) illustrates that element symbols are not always derived from their common English names, but often from Latin, German, or Greek names.
What if the question asked for the symbol of Gold? The answer would be 'Au', derived from its Latin name 'Aurum', another example of a symbol not matching the English name.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question from basic chemistry.
Identify the key term in the question: 'Tungsten'.
Recall the chemical symbol associated with this element from the periodic table.
Evaluate the given options. The symbol for Tungsten is 'W', which is derived from its other name, Wolfram.
Eliminate the incorrect options. 'T', 'Wn', and 'Tn' are not the correct symbol for Tungsten.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QMRrFxsp6wQeDHUz0jvlSM

Practise the full RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-1)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.