Yttrium (Y)
Yttrium (Y, element 39) is a transition metal in group 3, period 5. Atomic mass 88.906, electron configuration [Kr] 4d¹ 5s², uses and facts.
About Yttrium
Yttrium is a transition metal with the symbol Y and atomic number 39. It is a solid at room temperature, and it sits in group 3, period 5 of the periodic table. Yttrium was discovered in 1794 by Johan Gadolin.
Yttrium key facts
- Atomic number: 39
- Symbol: Y
- Atomic mass: 88.906 u
- Category: transition metal
- Group: 3
- Period: 5
- State at room temperature: solid
- Electron configuration: [Kr] 4d¹ 5s²
- Electronegativity (Pauling): 1.22
- Melting point: 1799 K (1525.85 °C)
- Boiling point: 3609 K (3335.85 °C)
- Density: 4.472 g/cm³
- Common oxidation states: +1, +2, +3
Electron configuration
The electron configuration of yttrium is [Kr] 4d¹ 5s². The part in brackets is the noble gas core; the rest shows how the outer electrons fill their subshells.
Uses of yttrium
- LEDs
- Superconductors
- Cancer treatment
Did you know?
Yttrium was discovered in a mineral from Ytterby, Sweden, four elements are named after this tiny village.
Other elements in group 3 and neighbours
Frequently asked questions
What is the atomic number of yttrium?
The atomic number of yttrium is 39, which means every yttrium atom has 39 protons.
What is the electron configuration of yttrium?
The electron configuration of yttrium is [Kr] 4d¹ 5s².
What group and period is yttrium in?
Yttrium is a transition metal in group 3, period 5.
What state is yttrium at room temperature?
Yttrium is a solid at room temperature.
What is yttrium used for?
Yttrium is used for LEDs, superconductors, cancer treatment.