Y

Ytterbia

Yb₂O₃; MW = 394.08 g/mol; white powder
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationYb₂O₃; MW = 394.08 g/mol; white powder
Also Known AsYtterbium oxide, ytterbium(III) oxide, Yb₂O₃

What is Ytterbia?

The oxide of ytterbium, Yb₂O₃, a white powder. Like other rare earth oxides, ytterbia is used in making specialized glass and ceramics, as a dopant in various materials, and as a catalyst. It was one of several rare earth oxides isolated from minerals found near Ytterby, Sweden.

Formula & Notation

Yb₂O₃; MW = 394.08 g/mol; white powder

Other Names / Synonyms: Ytterbium oxide, ytterbium(III) oxide, Yb₂O₃

Properties & Characteristics

Ytterbia (ytterbium(III) oxide, Yb₂O₃) is the most common oxide of ytterbium, a white crystalline powder that is slightly hygroscopic. It is a basic oxide that dissolves in strong acids. Ytterbia has high thermal stability. It is classified as a rare earth oxide and shares properties with other lanthanide oxides.

Uses & Applications

Ytterbia is used as a dopant in optical materials and phosphors. It is used in the production of ytterbium metal and ytterbium compounds. Research applications include its use in lasers and speciality glass formulations.

Safety Information

Ytterbia has low acute toxicity but inhalation of fine oxide powder should be avoided. Standard precautions for handling fine inorganic powders apply, including dust mask and gloves.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Ytterbia
Formula Yb₂O₃; MW = 394.08 g/mol; white powder
Synonyms Ytterbium oxide, ytterbium(III) oxide, Yb₂O₃

Frequently Asked Questions

The oxide of ytterbium, Yb₂O₃, a white powder. Like other rare earth oxides, ytterbia is used in making specialized glass and ceramics, as a dopant in various materials, and as a catalyst. It was one of several rare earth oxides isolated from minerals found near Ytterby, Sweden.

More "Y" Terms

View all "Y" terms →
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z