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Europium

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Identification
Molecular formula
Eu
CAS number
7440-53-1
IUPAC name
europium
State
State

At room temperature, europium is a solid. It is one of the few rare earth metals that is soft enough to be cut with a knife. Due to its reactivity with air, europium is often stored under oil or in an inert atmosphere to preserve its metallic luster.

Melting point (Celsius)
822.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
1 095.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
1 529.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 802.00
General information
Molecular weight
151.96g/mol
Molar mass
151.9640g/mol
Density
5.2640g/cm3
Appearence

Europium is a ductile and rare earth element that appears as a silvery-white metal. It is relatively soft and rapidly oxidizes in air, which can result in tarnishing. Europium is usually handled under an inert atmosphere or oil to prevent oxidation. The metal corrodes slowly in cold water and more rapidly in hot water.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Europium Compounds

Europium, a rare earth element, exhibits a diverse range of solubility characteristics when it forms compounds, primarily depending on its oxidation state and the anions involved. Here are some insights into the solubility of europium compounds:

  • Europium(III) Compounds: Many europium(III) salts are known for their moderate to high solubility in water.
  • Hydroxides: Europium hydroxide, Eu(OH)₃, shows limited solubility in water.
  • Nitrates: Europium(III) nitrate, Eu(NO₃)₃, is highly soluble in aqueous solutions.
  • Oxides: Europium oxide, Eu₂O₃, is generally insoluble in water but can dissolve in strong acids, facilitating the release of europium ions.

In summary, the solubility of europium compounds can be summarized as:

  1. Highly soluble: Eu(NO₃)₃ and other nitrates
  2. Moderately soluble: Various europium(III) sulfates and chlorides
  3. Insoluble: Eu₂O₃ and europium hydroxides

To further illustrate, it's essential to remember that solubility can be influenced by temperature, pH, and ion concentration in the solution. Consequently, when dealing with europium compounds, always consider these factors in your solubility assessments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Europium

Europium, a fascinating element with the symbol Eu, is part of the lanthanide series in the periodic table. It is known for its unique properties and numerous applications, making it a compound of significant interest in both scientific research and industry.

Unique Characteristics

  • Rarity: Europium is one of the least abundant elements in the Earth’s crust, making up only about 0.000066% of it. This rarity contributes to its high value.
  • Oxidation States: Europium primarily exists in two oxidation states, +2 and +3, with the +3 state being the most stable and common in various compounds.
  • Color Emission: Europium is known for its ability to emit a bright red color when excited by ultraviolet light. This property is particularly useful in television screens and LED lights.

Applications

Europium plays a pivotal role in various applications:

  • Phosphorescent Materials: It is commonly used in phosphors for red and blue in color television tubes and LED lighting.
  • Magnetic Materials: Europium compounds are explored in the development of advanced permanent magnets.
  • Nuclear Reactors: Europium is utilized in nuclear reactors as a neutron absorber due to its high neutron-capturing ability.

Scientific Significance

Europium holds a special place in scientific research due to its:

  • Role in Luminescence: It serves as a critical component for studying luminescent behavior in materials.
  • Theoretical Research: Its electronic structure makes it a subject of investigation in theoretical chemistry and material science.

In conclusion, europium is not just another rare earth element; it embodies a blend of historical significance and modern technological relevance. As scientists continue to explore its numerous applications, europium is sure to remain a topic of interest in the fields of chemistry and materials science for years to come.

Synonyms
EUROPIUM
7440-53-1
EU
UNII-444W947O8O
EINECS 231-161-7
EUROPIUM, ELEMENTAL
444W947O8O
DTXSID3064695
Europium Metallicum
DTXCID0047660
231-161-7
EUROPIUM ION
MFCD00010992
Europium151
Europium standard
Europium Standard: Eu @ 1000 microg/mL in 5% HNO3
Europium Standard: Eu @ 10000 microg/mL in 5% HNO3
europio
europium atom
Europium ingot
Europium Dihydride
EUROPIUM [MI]
Europium (III) Hydride
63Eu
Ultra Thin Europium Nanofoil
Europium Metal Organic Framework
Europium Metal-Organic Framework
CHEBI:32999
AKOS028110013
Europium foil, 0.25mm (0.01in) thick
Europium rod, 9.52 mm (0.375in) dia
NS00082236
Q1396
Europium - Eu @ 1000 microg/mL in 5% HNO3
Europium sputtering target, 50.8mm dia x 1.59mm thick
Europium sputtering target, 76.2mm dia x 1.59mm thick
Europium, wire reel, 100mm, diameter 1.0mm, hard, 99.95%
Europium, wire reel, 50mm, diameter 1.0mm, hard, 99.95%
Europium, foil, 50x50mm, thickness 0.1mm, as rolled, 99.95%