The Probert Encyclopaedia of Science & Technology

YTTRIUM

Yttrium is a metal element with the symbol Y. It is one of the transition elements in group 3 (or IIIb) of the periodic table. Yttrium melts at about 15220 Celsius, boils at about 33380 Celsius. It is sometimes included among the rare earth elements. It was isolated by the German chemist Friedrich Wohler. Yttrium metal, which has a silvery lustre, can be prepared by the reduction of
yttrium trifluoride (YF3) with calcium. It oxidizes readily in air to the oxide and dissolves in hot water to form the hydroxide. Yttrium ranks about 29th in abundance of the elements in the earth' s crust. Yttrium is found as an oxide in most of the rare earth minerals. It is used extensively in phosphors employed in colour television tubes.
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