yttrium89

Yttrium-89 (89Y) is the stable, naturally occurring isotope of the element yttrium (atomic number 39). It is the only stable isotope of yttrium, and natural yttrium is essentially monoisotopic, consisting almost entirely of 89Y.

Nuclear properties: 89Y has a nuclear spin of 1/2, which makes it observable by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). As a stable isotope, it does not undergo radioactive decay, giving it a constant natural abundance.

Occurrence and production: Yttrium is a rare earth element found in minerals such as xenotime, gadolinite, and monazite. It is extracted from rare earth ore and refined. 89Y accounts for virtually all natural yttrium.

Physical properties and chemistry: Yttrium is a silvery, relatively soft metal with a density around 4.47 g/cm3 and a melting point near 1522 C. It forms oxides, such as Y2O3, and a variety of compounds used in phosphors and ceramics, as well as in superconducting and other advanced materials.

Applications: 89Y NMR is used to study the coordination environment of yttrium and related metals in chemistry and materials science. Yttrium-based phosphors, notably yttrium aluminum garnet doped with cerium (YAG:Ce), are important in LED lighting and display technologies.

Safety and handling: Yttrium metal is reactive with air and water; its oxides are generally stable. Proper handling and storage are advised to minimize corrosion and dust generation.

See also: Yttrium, isotopes of yttrium, YAG.