Ytterbium (Yb) is a chemical element belonging to the category Inner transition metal (lanthanide), with atomic number 70 and atomic mass 173.0400 u. This sheet describes its fundamental properties, periodic position and physical characteristics.
Identity
- Name: Ytterbium
- Symbol: Yb
- Atomic number: 70
- Atomic mass: 173.0400 u
Position in the periodic table
- Group: 3
- Period: 6
- Category: Inner transition metal (lanthanide)
Physico-chemical properties
- Standard state: Solid
- Melting point: About 824°C
- Density: About 6.97 g/cm³ (20°C)
- Electron configuration: [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 6s²
Scientific description
Ytterbium is a chemical element with symbol Yb and atomic number 70. It is a lanthanide and an inner transition metal, occupying group 3 and period 6. Its standard atomic mass is 173.0400 u. Compared with most other lanthanides, its melting and boiling points are relatively low, though they remain high with respect to everyday materials.