Gadolinium (Gd)
Gadolinium (Gd) is element 64, a lanthanide. Atomic mass 157.249, configuration [Xe] 4f⁷ 5d¹ 6s². Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 64 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Gd |
| Standard atomic weight | 157.249(2) |
| Category | Lanthanide |
| Period | 6 |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f⁷ 5d¹ 6s² |
| Valence electrons | 2 (Variable) |
| Common oxidation states | +3 |
| Common ions | No common ions |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 1.2 |
| First ionization energy | 593 kJ/mol |
| Atomic radius | 180 pm |
| Density | 7.9 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 1318°C |
| Boiling point | 3273°C |
| Specific heat | 0.235 J/(g·°C) |
Natural isotopes
- Gd-154: Stable
- Gd-155: Stable
- Gd-156: Stable
- Gd-157: Stable
- Gd-158: Stable
- Gd-160: Stable
Common uses
- MRI Contrast agents (Magnevist)
- Neutron shielding
- Magnetic refrigeration
Where it matters
- Medical Imaging (MRI Contrast Agents)
Hazards
- Free ion is toxic
- chelated form used medically
History
| Discovered | 1880 |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Jean Charles Galissard de Marignac |
| Name | From Mineral Gadolinite (after Johan Gadolin) |