Sample of the element cadmium Cd rotating. Cadmium has the atomic number 48, and is a soft, ductile and corrosion_resistant transition metal. It has the relatively low melting point of 321 degrees Celsius. Cadmium and its compounds are used in rechargable batteries, electroplating, as a paint pigment, and in some solar panels. Cadmium metal is toxic, and it must be handled with appropriate precuations.