Pure zirconium (Zr) is a lustrous, grayish-white metal. It is highly malleable and ductile, and generally resists corrosion. Middle school readers learn about the discovery of zirconium, its place on the periodic table, atoms and subatomic particles, how zirconium is extracted and refined, how it is used in nuclear reactors The book explains the various zirconium compounds and alloys and their applications in ceramics, medical products, superconductors, and electronics, among others.