E

Erbium

IUPAC: Erbium

Er Elements CAS 7440-52-0
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationEr
CAS Number7440-52-0
Molecular Weight167.26
Melting Point1529.0
Boiling Point2868.0
Density9.07
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceSoft, silvery, malleable metal with pink tinge in compounds
Also Known AsEr, erbium metal
CategoryElements

What is Erbium?

Erbium is a soft, silvery rare earth metal, atomic number 68. Produces characteristic pink/rose colour in glass and gemstones. Er-doped fibre amplifiers (EDFAs) are essential for long-distance optical fibre communications.

Formula & Notation

Er

IUPAC Name: Erbium

Other Names / Synonyms: Er, erbium metal

Properties & Characteristics

Atomic number: 68. Atomic mass: 167.26 g/mol. Period 6, f-block (lanthanide). Melting point: 1529 C. Boiling point: 2868 C. Density: 9.07 g/cm3. Electronegativity: 1.24. Oxidation state: +3. Six stable isotopes.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point1529.0
Boiling Point2868.0
Density9.07
Molecular Weight167.26
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceSoft, silvery, malleable metal with pink tinge in compounds

Uses & Applications

Er-doped fibre amplifiers (EDFAs) - backbone of internet optical communications (amplifies 1550 nm signal). Er:YAG laser (2.94 micron - skin resurfacing, dental procedures). Pink/rose colourant in glass and gemstones. Infrared laser applications.

Safety Information

Erbium metal: combustible powder. Erbium compounds: low toxicity. Irritant. Er:YAG laser: powerful IR laser - serious eye and skin hazard. Erbium dust: respiratory irritant. Handle with standard precautions.

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

Key Facts

Term Erbium
Formula Er
CAS Number 7440-52-0
Molecular Weight 167.26
Category Elements
Synonyms Er, erbium metal

Frequently Asked Questions

Erbium is a soft, silvery rare earth metal, atomic number 68. Produces characteristic pink/rose colour in glass and gemstones. Er-doped fibre amplifiers (EDFAs) are essential for long-distance optical fibre communications.

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