L

Lutetium

IUPAC: Lutetium

Lu Elements CAS 7439-94-3
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationLu
CAS Number7439-94-3
Molecular Weight174.97
Melting Point1663.0
Boiling Point3402.0
Density9.84
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceHard, dense, silvery-white metal
Also Known AsLu, lutetium metal
CategoryElements

What is Lutetium?

Lutetium is a hard, dense, silvery-white rare earth metal, atomic number 71. The heaviest and hardest lanthanide, due to lanthanide contraction. Lu-177 is increasingly important in targeted radionuclide therapy for cancer.

Formula & Notation

Lu

IUPAC Name: Lutetium

Other Names / Synonyms: Lu, lutetium metal

Properties & Characteristics

Atomic number: 71. Atomic mass: 174.97 g/mol. Period 6, f-block (lanthanide). Melting point: 1663 C. Boiling point: 3402 C. Density: 9.84 g/cm3 (densest lanthanide). Electronegativity: 1.27. Oxidation state: +3. Two stable isotopes: Lu-175 (97.4%), Lu-176 (2.6%, weakly radioactive).

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point1663.0
Boiling Point3402.0
Density9.84
Molecular Weight174.97
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceHard, dense, silvery-white metal

Uses & Applications

Lu-177 DOTATATE cancer therapy (neuroendocrine tumours). Lutetium oxyorthosilicate (Lu2SiO5:Ce) PET scanner detectors. Catalysts for petroleum refining. Lutetium aluminium garnet (LuAG) scintillator. Alloy stabiliser.

Safety Information

Lutetium metal: combustible powder. Lutetium compounds: low to moderate toxicity. Lu-177: radioactive beta/gamma emitter - radiation precautions. Lutetium 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 Lutetium
Formula Lu
CAS Number 7439-94-3
Molecular Weight 174.97
Category Elements
Synonyms Lu, lutetium metal

Frequently Asked Questions

Lutetium is a hard, dense, silvery-white rare earth metal, atomic number 71. The heaviest and hardest lanthanide, due to lanthanide contraction. Lu-177 is increasingly important in targeted radionuclide therapy for cancer.

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