Lutetium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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lutetium
[luหหtiหสษm ]
Definition
chemical element
Lutetium is a silvery-white metal that is part of the lanthanide series in the periodic table. It has the chemical symbol Lu and an atomic number of 71. This element is known for being one of the rarest and heaviest lanthanides. Lutetium is utilized in various applications, including catalysts in petroleum refining and as a dopant in certain types of lasers, contributing to advancements in material sciences. Additionally, it has been used in medical applications, particularly in cancer treatments due to its radioactive isotopes.
Examples of usage
- Lutetium is important for developing new materials.
- The rarity of lutetium makes it expensive.
- Scientists study lutetium for its unique properties.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- It is classified as a lanthanide, which are elements that often behave similarly due to their electron arrangements.
- Lutetium is one of the densest metals known, often used in nuclear reactors and as a catalyst in refining crude oil.
- It's used in making phosphors to create a bright display in LED lights.
Technology
- Lutetium compounds are crucial in improving the performance of certain types of lasers.
- In the realm of medicine, lutetium-177, an isotope of lutetium, is used in targeted cancer therapy, allowing direct attack on tumors.
Pop Culture
- While not commonly mentioned in everyday conversation, lutetium occasionally comes up in science fiction, often relating to advanced technology.
- Its rarity sometimes attracts attention in science documentaries focusing on rare earth elements.
History
- The discovery of lutetium marked significant progress in the understanding of the periodic table and rare earth elements.
- It was the last of the lanthanides to be isolated from its ores, showcasing the challenges scientists faced in early 20th-century chemistry.
Origin of 'lutetium'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'lutetium' comes from 'Lutetia,' the ancient name for Paris, where the element was discovered.
- Coined in 1907 by French chemist Georges Urbain, it reflects the scientific pride of France at that time.
The name 'lutetium' comes from the Latin word 'Lutetia,' which is the ancient name for Paris, where the element was first isolated. It was discovered in 1907 by the French chemist Georges Urbain, who separated it from ytterbium using a mineral known as euxenite. Lutetium was the last of the rare earth elements to be isolated. The symbol 'Lu' was later adopted for this element, aligning with the tradition of using letter symbols for chemical elements based on their names. The element has a historical significance as it played a role in expanding the understanding of lanthanides and their applications in modern chemistry and technology.