Ytterbium
| Formula / Notation | Yb |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Yb, ytterbium metal, rare earth element 70 |
What is Ytterbium?
A silvery-white rare earth metal (lanthanide) with atomic number 70 and symbol Yb. It has two common oxidation states (+2 and +3). Ytterbium is used in some special stainless steels and as a dopant in fiber optic lasers. Named after Ytterby, Sweden.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Yb, ytterbium metal, rare earth element 70
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A silvery-white rare earth metal (lanthanide) with atomic number 70 and symbol Yb. It has two common oxidation states (+2 and +3). Ytterbium is used in some special stainless steels and as a dopant in fiber optic lasers. Named after Ytterby, Sweden.
Ytterbium is used as a dopant in optical fibres for fibre amplifiers operating at 1070 nm wavelength, important in telecommunications and laser technology. Ytterbium-based clocks are among the world's most precise atomic clocks. Its compounds are used as catalysts in organic synthesis.
Ytterbium compounds have low to moderate toxicity but should be handled with standard laboratory precautions. Ytterbium dust is a slight fire hazard. Waste must be disposed of as heavy metal waste.
The formula or notation for Ytterbium is: Yb