Gold, represented by the chemical symbol Au (derived from the Latin word aurum) and holding the atomic number 79, is a chemical element. In its pure state, it appears as a bright, slightly orange-yellow, dense, soft, malleable, and ductile metal. As a transition metal and a member of group 11, gold is classified among the noble metals and is known for its low reactivity, ranking as the second least reactive element. Under standard conditions, it remains solid.
