Yttrium (Y)
Yttrium (Y) is element 39, a transition metal. Atomic mass 88.905838, configuration [Kr] 4d¹ 5s². Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 39 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Y |
| Standard atomic weight | 88.905838(2) |
| Category | Transition Metal |
| Group | 3 |
| Period | 5 |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Kr] 4d¹ 5s² |
| Valence electrons | 2 (Variable) |
| Common oxidation states | +3 |
| Common ions | No common ions |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 1.22 |
| First ionization energy | 600 kJ/mol |
| Electron affinity | 29.62 kJ/mol |
| Atomic radius | 212 pm |
| Density | 4.47 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 1522°C |
| Boiling point | 3345°C |
| Specific heat | 0.298 J/(g·°C) |
Natural isotopes
- Y-89: Stable
Common uses
- Red phosphors (CRTs/LEDs)
- Laser crystals (Nd:YAG)
- Superconductors
Where it matters
- Superconductors (YBCO)
- LEDs
Hazards
- Compounds can be toxic
- dust is flammable
History
| Discovered | 1794 |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Johan Gadolin |
| Name | From Ytterby, Sweden |