Why is palladium used in white gold and dental alloys?

Palladium is a precious, gray-white metal valued for its ductility and resistance to atmospheric tarnishing at ordinary temperatures. These properties make it an ideal component in several specialized applications:1

• White Gold: When alloyed with gold, palladium is used to create high-quality white gold. It serves as a desirable bleaching agent that helps achieve the characteristic white appearance of the alloy.1
• Dental Alloys: Palladium is widely utilized in dental alloys, accounting for a significant portion of its total consumption. Its use in this field is supported by its chemical stability and physical workability, which are essential for restorative dental work.21

Because palladium is extremely ductile and easily worked, it and its alloys often serve as effective substitutes for platinum in various industrial and decorative contexts.1