Dysprosium (Dy)
Dysprosium (Dy) is element 66, a lanthanide. Atomic mass 162.5, configuration [Xe] 4f¹⁰ 6s². Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 66 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Dy |
| Standard atomic weight | 162.500(1) |
| Category | Lanthanide |
| Period | 6 |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f¹⁰ 6s² |
| Valence electrons | 2 (Variable) |
| Common oxidation states | +3 |
| Common ions | No common ions |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 1.22 |
| First ionization energy | 573 kJ/mol |
| Atomic radius | 175 pm |
| Density | 8.55 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 1410°C |
| Boiling point | 2567°C |
| Specific heat | 0.173 J/(g·°C) |
Natural isotopes
- Dy-156: Stable
- Dy-158: Stable
- Dy-160: Stable
- Dy-161: Stable
- Dy-162: Stable
- Dy-163: Stable
- Dy-164: Stable
Common uses
- Neodymium magnet additive (increases heat resistance)
- Control rods
Where it matters
- Electric Vehicles (Magnet additives)
Hazards
- Low toxicity
- dust is flammable
History
| Discovered | 1886 |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Lecoq de Boisbaudran |
| Name | From Greek dysprositos (hard to get) |