Interesting facts
Interesting Facts About Gadolinium
Gadolinium is a fascinating element that belongs to the lanthanide series of the periodic table. Here are some captivating insights about this rare earth metal:
- Symbol & Atomic Properties: Gadolinium is represented by the symbol Gd and has an atomic number of 64. It is categorized as a f-block element.
- Discovery: This element was discovered in 1880 by the chemist Paul Émile Lecoq de Boisbaudran. Its name is derived from the mineral gadolinite, which was named after the Finnish chemist Johan Gadolin.
- Magnetic Properties: Gadolinium exhibits unique magnetic properties; it becomes ferromagnetic below 20°C. Its high magnetic susceptibility makes it valuable in various applications, such as in MRI contrast agents.
- Applications: Gadolinium is used in a variety of industries, including:
- Healthcare: As a contrast agent in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- Electronics: In making phosphors for color television tubes and computer monitors.
- Nuclear reactors: As a neutron absorber due to its favorable thermal neutron capture cross-section.
- Health Considerations: While gadolinium compounds are generally safe, overexposure can lead to health issues, particularly in those with kidney problems, leading to a rare condition known as nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF).
As a remarkable member of the lanthanides, gadolinium not only holds scientific significance but also plays a crucial role in technological advancements in medicine and industry.
In the words of the renowned chemist Marie Curie, "In science, there is no such thing as failure—there is only data." Gadolinium exemplifies this notion, showcasing how elements with unique properties can lead to significant discoveries and innovations.
Synonyms
GADOLINIUM
7440-54-2
Gadolinium, elemental
GD
UNII-AU0V1LM3JT
AU0V1LM3JT
EINECS 231-162-2
HSDB 7536
DTXSID5037234
CHEBI:33375
Gadolinium Metallicum
DTXCID3017234
231-162-2
GADOLINIUM ATOM
gadolinio
gadolinium(4+)
64Gd
MFCD00011022
Gadolinium foil, 3N
Gadolinium sputtering target, 50.8mm dia x 3.18mm thick
Gadolinium Standard: Gd @ 1000 microg/mL in 5% HNO3
Gadolinium Standard: Gd @ 10000 microg/mL in 5% HNO3
Gadolinium, chips
Gadolinium standard
GD3
gadolinium(4+) ion
Gadolinium ingot, 3N
gadolinium(IV) cation
Gadolinium powder, 3N
GADOLINIUM [MI]
GADOLINIUM [HSDB]
GADOLINIUM [WHO-DD]
Ultra Thin Gadolinium Nanofoil
Gadolinium powder, -200 mesh
CHEBI:37294
Gd(4+)
HSDB 7537
HAA44054
AKOS024438065
DB12091
HSD7537000
Gadolinium rod, 12.7mm (0.5in) dia
Gadolinium chips, 99.9%, 3N (REO)
Gadolinium foil, 99.9%, 3N (REO)
Gadolinium rod, 6.35mm (0.25in) dia
Gadolinium foil, 0.1mm (0.004in) thick
Gadolinium foil, 0.25mm (0.01in) thick
Gadolinium foil, 0.62mm (0.024in) thick
Gadolinium foil, 63mm x 10mm x 0.025mm
Gadolinium foil, 63mm x 20mm x 0.025mm
Gadolinium pieces, 20mm (0.79in) & down
NS00099727
Q1832
Gadolinium foil, 0.025mm (0.001in) thick
Gadolinium ingot/button, ca. 50.8mm (2.0in) dia
Gadolinium, rod, 100mm, diameter 3.0mm, cast, 99%
Gadolinium, rod, 25mm, diameter 12.5mm, cast, 99%
Gadolinium, rod, 48mm, diameter 3.0mm, cast, 99%
Gadolinium, rod, 50mm, diameter 12.5mm, cast, 99%
Gadolinium, rod, 50mm, diameter 6.35mm, cast, 99%
Q27117101
Gadolinium foil. 0.075mm (0.003in) thick, REacton?
Gadolinium, rod, 100mm, diameter 12.5mm, cast, 99%
Gadolinium, rod, 100mm, diameter 6.35mm, cast, 99%
Gadolinium, wire reel, 100mm, diameter 0.5mm, hard, 99.9%
Gadolinium, wire reel, 25mm, diameter 0.5mm, hard, 99.9%
Gadolinium, wire reel, 50mm, diameter 0.5mm, hard, 99.9%
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 0.1 mm, purity 99%, size 50 x 50 mm
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 0.1 mm, size 25 x 25 mm, purity 99%
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 0.5 mm, size 25 x 25 mm, purity 99%
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 0.5 mm, size 50 x 50 mm, purity 99%
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 2.0 mm, size 10 x 10 mm, purity 99%
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 2.0 mm, size 25 x 25 mm, purity 99%
Gadolinium, wire, 1.0 mm diameter, length 25 mm, purity 99.9%
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 0.005 mm, size 25 x 25 mm, purity 99%
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 0.01 mm, purity 99%, size 25 x 25 mm
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 0.025 mm, size 25 x 25 mm, purity 99%
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 0.025 mm, size 50 x 50 mm, purity 99%
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 0.05 mm, size 25 x 25 mm, purity 99%
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 0.05 mm, size 50 x 50 mm, purity 99%
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 0.25 mm, size 100 x 100 mm, purity 99%
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 0.25 mm, size 25 x 25 mm, purity 99%
Gadolinium, foil, thickness 0.25 mm, size 50 x 50 mm, purity 99%
Gadolinium, lump, 25 mm max. lump size, weight 100 g, purity 99.9%
Gadolinium, lump, 25 mm max. lump size, weight 20 g, purity 99.9%
Gadolinium, lump, 25 mm max. lump size, weight 50 g, purity 99.9%
Gadolinium, lump, 50 mm max. lump size, weight 100 g, purity 99.9%
Gadolinium, powder, 500 max. part. size (micron), weight 10 g, purity 99.9%
Gadolinium, powder, 500 max. part. size (micron), weight 20 g, purity 99.9%
Solubility of Gadolinium Compounds
Gadolinium (Gd), a rare earth element, forms several compounds, and the solubility of these compounds can vary significantly depending on their chemical composition. Generally, gadolinium salts have particular solubility properties:
It's important to consider the following factors that influence solubility:
In conclusion, while some gadolinium compounds are readily soluble in water, others remain more stable as precipitates. Understanding these solubility trends is crucial for applications in various fields, including medical imaging and materials science.