Name: Dysprosium

Atomic Symbol and Mass Number: Dy [66]

Electron Configuration: [Xe] 4f    6s

Atomic Radii: 178 pm

Electron Affinity: 50 kJ mol‑1

Oxidation States: +4, +3, +2, +1

Electronegativity Value: 1.22

Elemental Group: Lanthanide

Uses and Properties:

• Dysprosium has a metallic appearance with a shiny silver luster.

• The metal is so soft it is easily cut with a knife. It has a melting point of 1,407°C (2,565°F) and a boiling point of about 2,300°C (about 4,200°F). The density is 8.54 grams per cubic centimeter.

• Dysprosium has a high thermal neutron absorption cross-section, meaning that it is very good at absorbing neutrons.

• Because of this, it is used to make the control rods that are put into nuclear reactors to absorb excess neutrons and stop fission reactions getting out of control.

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Lewis Diagram: