Erbium166
Erbium-166 is a stable isotope of the element erbium. It has 66 protons and 100 neutrons, giving it an atomic mass of approximately 165.9303 atomic mass units. Erbium-166 is the most abundant isotope of erbium, making up about 33.4% of the element's natural occurrence. It is not radioactive and does not undergo decay. Erbium-166 is primarily found in various erbium-containing minerals. Its properties are consistent with those of other stable isotopes, meaning it does not emit radiation or transform into other elements. This stability makes it a useful component in certain scientific and industrial applications where a non-radioactive form of erbium is required. For example, it can be used in research involving neutron activation analysis or in the production of certain types of lasers and optical fibers. The prevalence and stability of erbium-166 contribute to the overall abundance and chemical behavior of erbium in the Earth's crust.