70

Tb

Ytterbium
173.054 (5)
 Historical Information

In 1878 Marignac discovered a component, which he called ytterbia, in the earth then known as erbia. In 1907, Urbain separated ytterbia into two components, which he called neoytterbia and lutecia. The elements in these earths are now known as ytterbium and lutetium, respectively.

Basic Information Shells
  • Name:Ytterbium
  • Symbol: Yb
  • Atomic number: 70
  • Atomic weight:173.054 (5)
  • Standard state: solid at 298 K
  • Group in periodic table:
  • Group name:Lanthanoid
  • Period in periodic table: 6
  • Block in periodic table: f-block
  • Classification: Metallic
 Ytterbium
Uses Trivia
  • alloys
  • natural thulium has possible use in ferrites (ceramic magnetic materials) used in microwave equipment

While the element is fairly stable, it should be kept in closed containers to protect it from air and moisture. Ytterbium is readily attacked and dissolved by mineral acids and reacts slowly with water.