Yttrium
Definition and meaning of Yttrium in chemistry.
![Yttrium element card: symbol Y, atomic number 39, atomic mass 88.906, electron configuration [Kr] 4d¹ 5s², oxidation states +3, Transition metal, group 3, period 5, solid at room temperature.](/assets/images/terms/yttrium-chemical-element.webp)
Yttrium is a soft, silvery transition metal with the symbol Y and atomic number 39. Scientists almost always group yttrium together with the rare-earth elements. This grouping occurs because yttrium shares nearly identical chemical behaviors with those rare metals.
In more detail
Yttrium sits at the top of group 3 in the periodic table. It is the first d-block transition metal in the fifth period. Geologists find yttrium in the Earth's crust alongside lanthanide metals in complex minerals.
Because their ionic radii are so similar, separating yttrium from these other metals is very difficult. In bulk form, the metal remains stable in open air because a protective oxide layer forms on its surface. However, finely divided yttrium powder is highly flammable and can catch fire easily.
When yttrium reacts, it always loses three electrons to form a stable Y3+ ion. Students often think yttrium is rare because of its classification as a rare-earth element. However, it is actually more abundant in the crust than lead or silver.
The challenge is finding concentrated deposits that are easy to mine. Its high melting point and low density make it useful for making heat-resistant alloys. It helps strengthen aluminum and magnesium metals used in aircraft parts.
Key facts
| Field | General Chemistry |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Y |
| Atomic number | 39 |
| Atomic mass | 88.906 u |
| Category | Transition-Metal |
| Melting point | 1522 degrees Celsius |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
Yttrium is critically important for making synthetic garnets and glowing materials called phosphors. Engineers use yttrium aluminum garnet crystals to build powerful lasers for surgery and cutting metal. Additionally, yttrium oxide is mixed with europium to create the red phosphors in television screens. These phosphors convert electrical energy into bright red light that we can see. Newer applications use yttrium in superconducting materials that conduct electricity with zero resistance at very low temperatures. This technology could make power grids much more efficient in the future.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the name yttrium come from?
The element is named after Ytterby, a small quarry village in Sweden. Miners discovered the first minerals containing yttrium in this village.
Is yttrium toxic to humans?
Pure yttrium dust can be hazardous if inhaled and can damage the lungs. However, most yttrium compounds are not very toxic in normal use.
Why is yttrium grouped with rare-earth metals?
It shares a similar ionic charge and size with lanthanide elements. This causes it to show nearly identical chemical behavior in geological deposits.
Related terms
Sources & references
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