Europium (Eu)
Europium (Eu) is element 63, a lanthanide. Atomic mass 151.964, configuration [Xe] 4f⁷ 6s². Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 63 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Eu |
| Standard atomic weight | 151.964(1) |
| Category | Lanthanide |
| Period | 6 |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f⁷ 6s² |
| Valence electrons | 2 (Variable) |
| Common oxidation states | +2, +3 |
| Common ions | No common ions |
| First ionization energy | 547 kJ/mol |
| Electron affinity | 83.36 kJ/mol |
| Atomic radius | 185 pm |
| Density | 5.24 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 822°C |
| Boiling point | 1529°C |
| Specific heat | 0.182 J/(g·°C) |
Natural isotopes
- Eu-151: Stable
- Eu-153: Stable
Common uses
- Red phosphors in TV screens/LEDs
- Fluorescent probes
Where it matters
- Anti-counterfeiting (Glowing dyes in Euro banknotes)
Hazards
- Reacts vividly with water
- non-toxic
History
| Discovered | 1901 |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Eugène-Anatole Demarçay |
| Name | From Europe |