Periodic table / Ytterbium

Overview

Ytterbium is a chemical element with symbol Yb and atomic number 70. It is the fourteenth and penultimate element in the lanthanide series, which is the basis of the relative stability of its +2 oxidation state. However, like the other lanthanides, its most common oxidation state is +3, seen in its oxide, halides and other compounds.

Electron configuration

The electron configuration of Ytterbium is [Xe] 4f14 6s2, with electron shells of 2, 8, 18, 32, 8, 2.

Physical and chemical properties

Ytterbium is classified as a lanthanide. It has an atomic mass of 173.045 and exists as a solid at standard conditions.

Real-world uses of Ytterbium

Ytterbium, a lanthanide, is used in magnets, electronics, lighting, and other specialized high-tech applications.

Interesting facts about Ytterbium

• Ytterbium has the atomic number 70 and chemical symbol Yb.
• It belongs to period 6, group 3 of the periodic table.
• Ytterbium was discovered by Jean Charles Galissard de Marignac.

Explore Ytterbium interactively

Want to compare Ytterbium with other elements or see it highlighted on the full table? Open the interactive periodic table and click on Yb to explore properties, trends, and neighboring elements. You can also test your knowledge with our periodic table quiz game.