Gadolinium (Gd)
By Eric Hummel
Discovery
Gadolinium was first introduced in 1880 in Switzerland. It was discovered by Jean Charles Galissard de Marignac. Named for the mineral gadolinite, which was named after Johan Gadolin, a Finnish chemist.
Uses of Gadolinium
MRI Contrast
Gadolinium compounds (not metal) are injected into patients receiving MRI scans to improve contrast.
Color TV
Gadolinium compounds are used as phosphors in color television sets.
CD's
Gadolinium is a component of a compact disk.
Identification Information
Atomic Number: 64
Mass Number: 157.25
Protons: 64
Neutrons: 93
Electrons: 64
It is located in the upper row of the lower rectangle on the periodic table.
Discovery Location
Discovered in Switzerland
Website: www.smore.com/Gadolinium
Location: Switzerland
Phone: 1-800-0000
Twitter: @GadoliniumSwag
Properties
Atomic Mass: 157.25
Atomic Radius: 233pm
Density: 7.901 g/cc
Melting Point: 1313°C (2395°F)
Boiling Point: 3250 °C (5882°F)
At room temperature Gadolinium is a solid.
Appearance: A soft, silvery metal that reacts with oxygen and water
Gadolinium - Periodic Table of Videos
Sources
Gray, Theodore W. (2008). The Photographic Card Deck of the Elements.
- Gray, Theodore W. (2009). The Elements: A visual exploration of every known atom in the universe. New York: Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers, Inc.