Rubidium ( Alkali metal )

• Rubidium was discovered by Robert Bunsen in 1861. From Latin word Rubidus ( mean, Dark red or bright red) 
• Elemental rubidium is highly reactive and rapid oxidation in air.
• Rubidium may be liquid at room temperature.
• Rubidium compounds have various chemical and electronic aplications.
• Rubidium from amalgam with mercury and alloy with gold, sodium, potassium and cesium. 
• It is the 23rd most abundant element in the earth crust.
• It is the second most electropositive element.
• Occurs naturally minerals like leucite, pollucite, carnalite and zinnwaldite.

Symbol                                 -  Rb

Atomic number                    -  37

Number of electrons           - 2, 8, 18, 8, 1

Electronic configuration   -  [ Krypton ]5s¹

Melting point                      - 312.46 K

Boiling point                      - 961 K

Atomic weight                     - 85.46

Atomic Structure :

Uses:

• Rubidium chloride is used in biochemistry.
• Rubidium-87 is used in some atomic clocks to maintain accuracy.
• Rb is used as a 'getter' in vaccum tubes and making special glasses.
• It is easily ionised and so has possible use in 'ion engine' for space vehicles.