Cobalt is a metallic element found in the periodic table with the symbol Co and atomic

number 27. Here's a breakdown of its key features:

 Physical Properties: It's a hard, lustrous, silver-white metal. Similar to iron and
nickel in appearance, cobalt is also magnetic.
 Occurrence: In nature, cobalt isn't found alone but rather combined with other
elements in minerals. These minerals are often mined alongside ores of other metals
like iron, copper, or nickel, with cobalt being a byproduct.
 Uses: Due to its strength and magnetic properties, cobalt is a valuable ingredient in
alloys. These alloys are used in:
o Magnets: Particularly strong permanent magnets, like those in some
loudspeakers and electric vehicle motors.
o High-temperature applications: Jet engine turbines and gas turbine
generators need to withstand immense heat, and cobalt-containing alloys are
up to the task.
o Other applications: Electroplating (giving objects a nice surface finish),
pigments (for that vibrant blue color), and even vitamin B12 (essential for
human health).