Gadolinium158

Gadolinium-158, denoted as Gd-158, is a stable isotope of the element gadolinium (atomic number 64). It consists of 64 protons and 94 neutrons, giving it a mass number of 158. Among natural gadolinium, Gd-158 is one of the more abundant isotopes, contributing roughly a quarter of the element’s natural abundance.

As a stable isotope, Gd-158 does not undergo radioactive decay under ordinary conditions, and it remains effectively unchanged on geological timescales. Its atomic mass is approximately 157.9 atomic mass units. Gd-158 occurs together with other stable gadolinium isotopes in minerals and materials that contain gadolinium.

In the broader context of nucleosynthesis, the stable gadolinium isotopes, including Gd-158, are produced by neutron capture processes in stars and explosive astrophysical environments. The observed abundances of these isotopes help scientists study stellar nucleosynthesis and the chemical evolution of galaxies.

Gadolinium, as an element, has a range of applications in science and industry. Gadolinium compounds are widely used as MRI contrast agents in medicine, and gadolinium-containing materials have roles in electronics and nuclear technology. The properties of natural gadolinium, including the presence of Gd-158, contribute to its overall physical and chemical behavior in these applications.

See also: Isotopes of gadolinium, gadolinium.