Imagine a silvery metal that can penetrate the human body for X-ray imaging, contribute to earthquake monitoring, and play pivotal roles in superconductors and laser technology. This is ytterbium (Yb), element 70 on the periodic table—a luminous star among rare-earth elements. Though less renowned than gold, ytterbium quietly powers advancements across modern science and technology.
From Swedish Village to Scientific Stardom
Ytterbium’s story begins in Ytterby, Sweden—a village that also lent its name to yttrium, terbium, and erbium. In 1878, Swiss chemist Jean Charles Galissard de Marignac isolated ytterbium while studying erbium ore, expanding the rare-earth family. Unlike free-standing elements, ytterbium hides within minerals like monazite, requiring meticulous extraction akin to a treasure hunt.
A Shimmering yet Temperamental Metal
At room temperature, ytterbium gleams with a silvery luster and soft malleability. Yet its reactivity rivals a prima donna’s temperament—it tarnishes rapidly when exposed to air or moisture, demanding careful storage under inert conditions. With a melting point of 824°C (1515°F) and density of 6.98 g/cm³, ytterbium balances delicacy with resilience.
Technological Powerhouse
Atomic Profile
With electron configuration [Xe] 4f¹⁴6s² and +3/+2 oxidation states, ytterbium’s filled 4f orbital grants unique chemical behavior. Its face-centered cubic crystal structure underpins strong thermal conductivity (0.349 W/cm·K) and electrical properties.
Global Resources
Abundant deposits in Australia, Brazil, China, India, and the U.S. ensure stable ytterbium supplies. Major reserves include monazite and xenotime ores.
Future Frontiers
Emerging applications span next-gen solar cells and biomedical diagnostics, positioning ytterbium as a linchpin for sustainable innovation.
Technical Specifications
Symbol:
Yb |
Atomic Number:
70 |
Weight:
173.045
Melting Point:
819°C (1506°F) |
Boiling Point:
1196°C (2185°F)
Density:
6.98 g/cm³ |
Crystal Structure:
Face-centered cubic
Discoverer:
Jean de Marignac (1878)
Imagine a silvery metal that can penetrate the human body for X-ray imaging, contribute to earthquake monitoring, and play pivotal roles in superconductors and laser technology. This is ytterbium (Yb), element 70 on the periodic table—a luminous star among rare-earth elements. Though less renowned than gold, ytterbium quietly powers advancements across modern science and technology.
From Swedish Village to Scientific Stardom
Ytterbium’s story begins in Ytterby, Sweden—a village that also lent its name to yttrium, terbium, and erbium. In 1878, Swiss chemist Jean Charles Galissard de Marignac isolated ytterbium while studying erbium ore, expanding the rare-earth family. Unlike free-standing elements, ytterbium hides within minerals like monazite, requiring meticulous extraction akin to a treasure hunt.
A Shimmering yet Temperamental Metal
At room temperature, ytterbium gleams with a silvery luster and soft malleability. Yet its reactivity rivals a prima donna’s temperament—it tarnishes rapidly when exposed to air or moisture, demanding careful storage under inert conditions. With a melting point of 824°C (1515°F) and density of 6.98 g/cm³, ytterbium balances delicacy with resilience.
Technological Powerhouse
Atomic Profile
With electron configuration [Xe] 4f¹⁴6s² and +3/+2 oxidation states, ytterbium’s filled 4f orbital grants unique chemical behavior. Its face-centered cubic crystal structure underpins strong thermal conductivity (0.349 W/cm·K) and electrical properties.
Global Resources
Abundant deposits in Australia, Brazil, China, India, and the U.S. ensure stable ytterbium supplies. Major reserves include monazite and xenotime ores.
Future Frontiers
Emerging applications span next-gen solar cells and biomedical diagnostics, positioning ytterbium as a linchpin for sustainable innovation.
Technical Specifications
Symbol:
Yb |
Atomic Number:
70 |
Weight:
173.045
Melting Point:
819°C (1506°F) |
Boiling Point:
1196°C (2185°F)
Density:
6.98 g/cm³ |
Crystal Structure:
Face-centered cubic
Discoverer:
Jean de Marignac (1878)
