Erbium - Periodic Table of Videos

TL;DR

Erbium, a lanthanide metal, is crucial for the internet as it is used as an amplifier of light in optical fibers, ensuring the transmission of signals over long distances.

Transcript

Lovely! I’ve just realised that erbium is the most crucial element for the internet of all the elements on the periodic table, and so I want to take you across to materials engineering where we can see a demonstration which will explain to you why it’s so important, and why without erbium many of you couldn’t be watching this video. Erbium is anoth... Read More

Key Insights

• 🤘 Erbium, a lanthanide metal, was discovered in the Ytterby Mine in Sweden, alongside three other elements.
• 💀 It is used as a photographic filter and a nuclear poison due to its ability to kill a nuclear fission process.
• 😒 Erbium compounds often exhibit a pink color, making them suitable for use in jewelry and sunglasses.
• 🙂 Erbium is utilized as an amplifier in optical fibers to maintain the intensity of light signals over long distances.
• 📶 Optic fibers are preferred over copper cables for internet transmission due to their ability to carry more information and maintain signal strength.
• 😃 Erbium salts are used in welding goggles to protect the eyes from the intense light emitted during the welding process.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is erbium and why is it important for the internet?

Erbium is a lanthanide metal that is crucial for the internet as it is used as an amplifier in optical fibers, ensuring the transmission of signals over long distances. Without erbium, the internet wouldn't be able to function as efficiently.

Q: How does erbium affect the color of compounds and why is it used in jewelry and sunglasses?

When erbium compounds are dissolved in solution, they often turn pink. This coloration is utilized in jewelry and sunglasses to provide aesthetic appeal. The slight pink hue adds a unique touch to these products.

Q: How does erbium protect the eyes of welders?

Welders use erbium salts in their goggles to protect their eyes from the intense and bright light emitted during the welding process. Erbium salts absorb a significant amount of light, preventing damage to the eyes of the welder.

Q: Why are optic fibers used instead of copper cables for internet transmission?

Optic fibers are used for internet transmission because they can carry significantly more information than copper cables. Additionally, optic fibers are stronger and can transmit signals over longer distances without losing strength.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Erbium was discovered in the Ytterby Mine in Sweden and is one of the four elements found in black minerals from the quarry.

• Erbium is a photographic filter and a nuclear poison, used for various applications.

• It is used as an amplifier in optical fibers, allowing for the transmission of internet signals over long distances.