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erbium

Definition

Erbium is a chemical element with the symbol Er and atomic number 68. It is a rare-earth metal that is found in the minerals monazite and bastnasite. Erbium is a silvery-white metal that is soft and ductile. It is also a good conductor of heat and electricity.

Erbium is used in a variety of applications, including:

  • Lasers: Erbium is used in lasers that are used for surgery and for telecommunications.
  • Fibre optics: Erbium is used in fibre optics to amplify light signals.
  • Magnetism: Erbium is a strong magnet and is used in magnetic materials.
  • Nuclear power: Erbium is used in nuclear power plants to control the reaction.

How can the word be used?

Erbium is used in a variety of applications, including lasers, fiber optics, and magnetic materials.

erbium

Different forms of the word

Noun: erbium, erbium metal.

Adjective: erbium, erbium-based, erbium-doped.

Verb: to erbium-dope.

Synonyms: lanthanide, rare-earth element.

Etymology

The word "erbium" comes from the Swedish town of Ytterby, where it was first discovered in 1843 by Carl Gustaf Mosander. The town's name is derived from the Swedish word "ytterst," meaning "outermost.".

Question

What is erbium?