Thulium is a rare earth element with the atomic number 69. It is a silvery-white metal that is relatively soft and ductile.
Thulium is found in various mineral deposits, including monazite and bastnasite, which are the primary commercial sources of rare earth elements. The mining of these minerals involves the separation of thulium from other rare earth elements and the refining of the material to produce pure thulium.
In terms of uses, thulium has a range of applications, including portable X-ray machines, scientific research, and portable power generators. Thulium is used as a radioactive source in portable X-ray machines, as it has several isotopes that emit X-rays and can be used as a source of energy. In scientific research, thulium is used as a tracer element, as it has several isotopes that are useful in various studies, such as geology and biology. Thulium is also used as a fuel in portable power generators, as it has a high energy density and can be used to generate heat and electricity.
In terms of physical properties, thulium is a silvery-white metal that is relatively soft and ductile. It is relatively unreactive and resistant to corrosion, making it useful in various industrial applications.
In conclusion, thulium is a rare earth element with a range of uses, including portable X-ray machines, scientific research, and portable power generators. It is found in mineral deposits and must be mined and refined to produce pure thulium. Its physical properties include a silvery-white appearance and high thermal stability.