Friday, October 4, 2013

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.

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