The paramagnetic susceptibility, electrical resistivity, and lattice parameters of nickel‐rich nickel‐tantalum solid solutions (10 compositions) have been studied. The paramagnetic measurements extend to about 1500°K. The resistivities have been obtained at 4.2°, 77.2,° and 297.0°K. The lattice parameters of samples quenched from 1473°K were determined at 298°K. All these data indicate that the influence of tantalum on the physical properties of nickel is very similar to that of niobium. It is demonstrated by means of the magnetic susceptibility measurements that the generally accepted Curie‐Weiss law, with an additive temperature‐independent susceptibility term, is not applicable to the solid solutions of tantalum in nickel. The susceptibility and resistivity data are briefly discussed from the viewpoint of recent theoretical and experimental developments. The lattice parameters are analyzed using the previously suggested atomic volume scheme and elasticity theory. The agreement between the experimental values and the predictions is satisfactory.