Yttrium (symbol Y, atomic number 39) is a transition metal used in LED phosphors, lasers, and superconductors. It is classified as a transition metal and sits in group 3, period 5 of the periodic table.
Overview
Yttrium is the chemical element with atomic number 39 and the symbol Y. With a standard atomic weight of 88.906, it is a transition metal. In the periodic table it occupies group 3 and period 5, and under standard conditions it is normally a solid. Yttrium is a transition metal used in LED phosphors, lasers, and superconductors.
Atomic structure
An atom of Yttrium has 39 protons in its nucleus and, when neutral, 39 electrons arranged in the configuration [Kr] 4d1 5s2. Its standard atomic weight of 88.906 reflects the natural mix of its stable isotopes.
Discovery and place in the table
Yttrium was discovered in 1794 by Johan Gadolin. It follows Strontium (Sr) and precedes Zirconium (Zr) in order of atomic number.
| Atomic number | 39 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Y |
| Atomic mass | 88.906 |
| Category | Transition metal |
| Group | 3 |
| Period | 5 |
| Electron configuration | [Kr] 4d1 5s2 |
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Discovered | 1794 (Johan Gadolin) |