Yttrium is a chemical element with the symbol Y and atomic number 39. It is a silvery-white metal that is found in the Earth's crust in small quantities.
Sources of Yttrium:
Monazite: Yttrium is primarily extracted from the mineral monazite, which contains up to 5% yttrium.
Xenotime: Yttrium can also be found in the mineral xenotime, and can be extracted from this mineral using a variety of methods.
Uses of Yttrium:
Superconductors: Yttrium is used in superconductors, materials that can conduct electricity with zero resistance.
LCDs: Yttrium is used in LCDs (liquid crystal displays), which are used in a variety of electronic devices, such as televisions and computer monitors.
Alloys: Yttrium is used in alloys, such as those used in aircraft engines, to improve the strength and durability of the metal.
Cancer Treatment: Yttrium is used in cancer treatment as a radioactive isotope, which is used to destroy cancer cells.
Other Applications: Yttrium is also used in other applications, such as in the production of catalysts and in the manufacture of electronic components.
Production of Yttrium:
Chemical Reduction: Yttrium can be produced by the chemical reduction of yttrium compounds, such as yttrium chloride or yttrium hydroxide.
Electrometallurgy: Yttrium can also be produced by electrometallurgical processes, where the metal is extracted from its ores by electrolysis.
Properties of Yttrium:
Physical Properties: Yttrium is a silvery-white metal that is relatively stable in air and has a high melting point.
Chemical Properties: Yttrium is a reactive metal and readily forms compounds with other elements.
Extract: Yttrium is extracted from monazite and xenotime using methods such as chemical reduction and electrometallurgical processes. Yttrium compounds, such as yttrium chloride and yttrium hydroxide, can be obtained by chemical reactions with other elements.