lu·te·ti·um also lu·te·ci·um (l -t  sh- m)n. Symbol Lu A silvery-white rare-earth element that is exceptionally difficult to separate from the other rare-earth elements, used in nuclear technology. Atomic number 71; atomic weight 174.97; melting point 1,663°C; boiling point 3,395°C; specific gravity 9.840 (at 25°C); valence 3. See Table at element. [Latin Lutetia, ancient name of Paris, France (where it was discovered) + -ium.] |
lutetium, lutecium [lʊˈtiːʃɪəm]
n
(Chemistry / Elements & Compounds) a silvery-white metallic element of the lanthanide series, occurring in monazite and used as a catalyst in cracking, alkylation, and polymerization. Symbol: Lu; atomic no.: 71; atomic wt.: 174.967; valency: 3; relative density: 9.841; melting pt.: 1663°C; boiling pt.: 3402°C
[New Latin, from Latin Lūtētia ancient name of Paris, home of G. Urbain (1872-1938), French chemist, who discovered it]
| lutetium (l-tsh-m) Symbol Lu A silvery-white metallic element of the lanthanide series that is used in nuclear technology. Its radioactive isotope is used in determining the age of meteorites. Atomic number 71; atomic weight 174.97; melting point 1,663°C; boiling point 3,395°C; specific gravity 9.840 (at 25°C); valence 3. See Periodic Table. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. |  lutetium - a trivalent metallic element of the rare earth group; usually occurs in association with yttriummetal, metallic element - any of several chemical elements that are usually shiny solids that conduct heat or electricity and can be formed into sheets etc. |
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