Erbium
![](https://cdn1.byjus.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Erbium-1.jpg)
Symbol | Er |
Atomic Number | 68 |
Atomic Mass | 167.26 g.mol -1 |
Discovered by | Nobel Institute for Physics in 1957 |
![](https://cdn1.byjus.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Erbium-2.jpg)
Chemical Properties of Erbium
Group | Lanthanides | Melting point | 1522 °C |
Period | 6 | Boiling point | 2867°C |
Block | f | Density (g cm−3) | 9.07 |
Atomic number | 68 | Relative atomic mass | 167.259 |
State at 20°C | Solid | Key isotopes | 166Er |
Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f126s2 | CAS number | 7440-52-0 |
ChemSpider ID | 22416 | ChemSpider is a free chemical structure database |
What is Erbium?
- Erbium is a chemical radioactive element present as the eleventh element in the lanthanide series of the periodic table. The pure form of the element is metal.
- Naturally, occurring Erbium is found in chemical combination with other naturally occurring elements. When it is artificially isolated its appearance is a silvery-white solid metal.
Uses of Erbium
- This metal is used to colour the lenses of glasses.
- It is also used in the control rods of nuclear reactors.
- It has a vital application in the production of metal alloys.
- Erbium ion’s unique wavelength aids laser surgery.
Properties of Erbium
- The pure form of Erbium metal is malleable.
- It is very stable and it does not oxidize quickly when it is exposed to air (when compared to other rare earth metals).
- It comprises properties that are similar to other rare earth materials or lanthanides.
- It is an interesting probe for a large variety of physical effects due to its unique properties.
Certain Facts About Erbium
- Although Erbium is considered as a rare metal, it is actually not since it is the forty-fifth most abundant element found in the earth’s crust.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
Q1
To which block does Erbium belong?
Erbium belongs to f-block elements.
Q2
What is the electron configuration of Erbium?
The electron configuration of Erbium is [Xe] 4f12 6s2.
Q3
To which period does Erbium belong?
Period 6.
Q4
What is the atomic number of Erbium?
The atomic number of Hassium is 68.
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