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terbium

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Terbium is a chemical element with the symbol Tb and atomic number 65. It is a lanthanide element, meaning it is a member of the group of elements that are in the 6th period of the periodic table.

Terbium is a silvery-white metal that is soft and ductile. It has a melting point of 1356 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 3027 degrees Celsius.

Terbium is a good conductor of heat and electricity. It is also a strong magnet.

Terbium is used in a variety of applications, including:

  • Lasers: Terbium is used in lasers because it can emit light at a variety of wavelengths.
  • Permanent magnets: Terbium is used in permanent magnets because it is a strong magnet.
  • Light-emitting diodes (LEDs): Terbium is used in LEDs because it can emit light at a variety of wavelengths.
  • Nuclear reactors: Terbium is used in nuclear reactors because it can absorb neutrons.

Terbium is a relatively rare element. The global production of terbium is about 100 tonnes per year.

How can the word be used?

Terbium is a rare-earth element that is found in small amounts in nature.

terbium

Different forms of the word

Noun:

a chemical element with the symbol Tb and atomic number 65. It is a rare-earth element that is found in small amounts in nature.

Adjective:

relating to or containing terbium.

Etymology

The word "terbium" comes from the Latinized form of Ytterby, a village in Sweden where the mineral containing terbium was first found.

The first recorded use of the word "terbium" was in 1843.

The word "terbium" is a New Latin word, which means that it was created by scientists. It is derived from the Latinized form of Ytterby.

Question

How can terbium be used?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Explain the significance of terbium in modern technology. Describe its unique properties that make it valuable for various applications. Provide an example of a technological device where terbium is commonly used and its role in enhancing device performance.

Answer:

Terbium, an element with atomic number 65, holds significant importance in modern technology due to its exceptional properties. It belongs to the lanthanide series of elements and is known for its unique magnetic and luminescent properties.

Terbium is used in various applications, with one notable example being its incorporation into phosphors for fluorescent lighting and display screens. Terbium-based phosphors emit green light when exposed to ultraviolet light, contributing to the vibrant colours and energy efficiency of modern televisions and computer monitors.

In liquid crystal displays (LCDs), terbium's luminescent properties play a crucial role in backlighting technology. When combined with other elements, terbium-based phosphors help generate the white light necessary for illuminating LCD screens. This enhances the quality of images and videos displayed on electronic devices, resulting in sharper and more vibrant visual experiences.

The significance of terbium in modern technology highlights the intricate relationship between elements and their practical applications. Terbium's contributions to lighting and display technologies showcase how specific material properties can be harnessed to create innovative and efficient devices, underscoring the role of materials science in advancing technological capabilities and enhancing user experiences.