Terbium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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terbium
[ˈtɜːr.bi.əm ]
Definition
chemical element
Terbium is a chemical element with the symbol Tb and atomic number 65. It belongs to the lanthanide series on the periodic table. Terbium is a silvery-gray metal that is quite stable in air and does not tarnish easily. It is predominantly used in solid-state devices, phosphors for color television tubes, and as a dopant in certain materials to enhance their optical properties.
Synonyms
Tb, terbium metal.
Examples of usage
- Terbium is used in various phosphorescent materials.
- The atomic number of terbium is 65.
- Scientists are studying the properties of terbium for potential uses.
- Terbium can be found in the minerals xenotime and euxenite.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Terbium is a member of the lanthanide series in the periodic table, known for its unique magnetic and optical properties.
- This element is used in green phosphors in fluorescent lamps and tv screens, contributing to high-quality images.
Technology
- Terbium's unique properties make it valuable in the production of solid-state devices like lasers and microwave equipment.
- It's also used in magnet production, aiding in the development of more efficient electric motors.
Resources
- Terbium is relatively rare, and its major sources include minerals like xenotime and monazite found in places like China and Australia.
- The growing demand for technology has increased interest in the mining and recycling of rare earth elements, including terbium.
Pop Culture
- Terbium has appeared in various science fiction stories due to its association with advanced technology and futuristic devices.
- Because of its fascinating properties, it's sometimes mentioned in educational videos and documentaries focused on chemistry and materials science.
Origin of 'terbium'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'terbium' comes from the name of a village in Sweden called Ytterby, where many rare elements were discovered.
- It was first isolated in 1843 by Swedish chemist Marc A. G. de Marignac.
The name 'terbium' is derived from the village of Ytterby in Sweden, where several rare earth elements were first discovered. The element was first isolated in 1843 by the Swedish chemist Carl Gustaf Mosander, who extracted it from the mineral ytterbite, now known as gadolinite. Initially, Mosander believed that he had discovered a new element, which he named 'terbia.' The name was later changed to 'terbium' in 1860, when it was recognized as a distinct element. Terbium is one of the relatively rare elements on Earth, and its extraction often occurs in conjunction with other rare earth elements. Over time, terbium has found a variety of applications in modern technology, particularly in lighting and electronics, showcasing its significance in the advancement of materials science.