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Thulium

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Identification
Molecular formula
Tm
CAS number
7440-30-4
IUPAC name
thulium
State
State

Solid at room temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
1 545.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
1 818.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
1 950.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
2 223.00
General information
Molecular weight
168.93g/mol
Molar mass
168.9340g/mol
Density
9.3210g/cm3
Appearence

Thulium is a bright, silvery-gray metal that is soft and malleable. It is relatively stable in air, but it can tarnish slowly over time. The metal can be cut with a knife and is capable of being drawn into a wire or foil due to its ductility.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Thulium Compounds

Thulium (Tm) is an intriguing element known for its unique properties, but when we discuss its solubility, the topic is quite specialized due to the various compounds it forms. The solubility of thulium compounds can vary significantly depending on their specific chemical form. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Thulium Oxide (Tm2O3): This compound is generally insoluble in water, which means it does not dissolve readily.
  • Thulium Chloride (TmCl3): Unlike thulium oxide, thulium chloride is soluble in water, showcasing a distinct behavior among thulium salts.
  • Thulium Nitrate (Tm(NO3)3): This is also soluble in water, creating interesting applications in various fields due to its ionic nature.
  • Thulium Sulfate (Tm2(SO4)3): Shows moderate solubility, which can vary based on temperature and concentration.

The solubility of thulium compounds can be influenced by various factors, including:

  • pH of the solution: The acidity or basicity of the solution can significantly affect solubility.
  • Temperature: Some compounds may dissolve better at higher temperatures.
  • Presence of other ions: The formation of complexes or precipitation reactions can alter solubility.

Understanding the solubility characteristics of thulium compounds is crucial, especially in applications such as materials science, nuclear medicine, and solid-state physics. As research continues, the exploration of thulium's solubility will undoubtedly lead to new insights and technological advancements.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Thulium

Thulium is a fascinating element found in the lanthanide series of the periodic table, known as Tm. Here are some intriguing points about this rare earth metal:

  • Discovery: Thulium was first isolated in 1879 by the Swedish chemist Lars Fredrik Nilson. Its name is derived from Thule, which refers to a remote northern region described in classical literature.
  • Rarity: Thulium is one of the least abundant rare earth elements, making up only about 0.005% of the Earth's crust. This rarity contributes to its novelty and value in various applications.
  • Applications: Thulium is primarily used in medical imaging and treatments. Its isotopes are employed in portable X-ray equipment, as well as in certain cancer therapies due to its ability to emit high-energy radiation.
  • Color and Luminescence: When doped into materials, thulium can create brilliant colors, particularly in lasers. Thulium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) lasers are celebrated for their efficiency and are used in surgical procedures.

One striking quote about thulium states, “In the realm of rare earths, thulium is the quiet yet powerful player, often overlooked but incredibly indispensable.” This emphasizes the element's understated importance in both scientific research and practical applications.

Overall, thulium continues to be a subject of study for chemists and physicists alike, with ongoing research revealing more about its properties and potential uses.

Synonyms
THULIUM
7440-30-4
tulio
thulium atom
UNII-8RKC5ATI4P
8RKC5ATI4P
THULIUM [MI]
EINECS 231-140-2
THULIUM, ELEMENTAL
DTXSID8064692
CHEBI:33380
DTXCID1047657
231-140-2
Tm
MFCD00011281
Thulium Standard
Thulium Standard: Tm @ 1000 microg/mL in 5% HNO3
Thulium Standard: Tm @ 10000 microg/mL in 5% HNO3
Thulium pieces
Thulium powder
Thulium foil
Thulium Nanofoil
69Tm
Thulium, ingot, 99.9%
Ultra Thin Thulium Nanofoil
FRNOGLGSGLTDKL-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Thulium pieces, sublimed dendritic
HAA44030
AKOS024257646
Thulium foil, 0.1mm (0.004in) thick
Thulium foil, 0.25mm (0.01in) thick
Thulium, chips, 99.9% trace metals basis
NS00082609
Q1853
Thulium, wire, 0.1m, diameter 0.6mm, 99%
Thulium - Tm @ 1000 microg/mL in 5% HNO3
Thulium, powder, ~40 mesh, 99.9% trace metals basis
Thulium, foil, 25x25mm, thickness 0.15mm, as rolled, 99%
Thulium, foil, 25x25mm, thickness 0.1mm, as rolled, 99%
Thulium, foil, 50x50mm, thickness 0.15mm, as rolled, 99%
Thulium, foil, 50x50mm, thickness 0.1mm, as rolled, 99%
Thulium, foil, not light tested, 12.5x12.5mm, thickness 0.002mm, as rolled, 99%
Thulium, foil, not light tested, 12.5x12.5mm, thickness 0.005mm, as rolled, 99%
Thulium, foil, not light tested, 25x25mm, thickness 0.002mm, as rolled, 99%
Thulium, foil, not light tested, 25x25mm, thickness 0.005mm, as rolled, 99%
Thulium, foil, not light tested, 25x25mm, thickness 0.025mm, as rolled, 99%
Thulium, foil, not light tested, 50x50mm, thickness 0.025mm, as rolled, 99%