Ytterbium (Yb)
Ytterbium (Yb) is element 70, a lanthanide. Atomic mass 173.045, configuration [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 6s². Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 70 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Yb |
| Standard atomic weight | 173.045(10) |
| Category | Lanthanide |
| Period | 6 |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 6s² |
| Valence electrons | 2 (Variable) |
| Common oxidation states | +3 |
| Common ions | No common ions |
| First ionization energy | 603 kJ/mol |
| Electron affinity | -1.93 kJ/mol |
| Atomic radius | 175 pm |
| Density | 6.9 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 818°C |
| Boiling point | 1196°C |
| Specific heat | 0.155 J/(g·°C) |
Natural isotopes
- Yb-168: Stable
- Yb-170: Stable
- Yb-171: Stable
- Yb-172: Stable
- Yb-173: Stable
- Yb-174: Stable
- Yb-176: Stable
Common uses
- Fiber lasers
- Stress gauges
- Atomic clocks
Where it matters
- Atomic Clocks (World's most stable clocks)
Hazards
- Eye/skin irritant
History
| Discovered | 1878 |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Jean Charles Galissard de Marignac |
| Name | From Ytterby, Sweden |