Definition

A soft, silvery element that is part of the rare-earth metals, used in various applications like coloring glass and in nuclear research.

Example

Erbium is often used to create pink glass and in certain types of lasers.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of erbium?

Yeah, I think it's one of those rare-earth elements, right?

Exactly! It's used in things like glass coloring and metallurgy.

That's pretty cool! I didn't know it had so many uses.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Erbium is derived from the name of the mineral 'erbia', which comes from the village of Ytterby in Sweden where the mineral was first discovered. The name 'erbium' itself does not have a clear Latin or Greek root but is a modern chemical element name based on its source mineral.

Memory Tip

Think of the village 'Ytterby' in Sweden where erbium was discovered — this helps you remember that erbium is named after a mineral found there.

Visually Confused Words