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Rubidium-Metall

Overview of Rubidium

Rubidium (Rb), with atomic number 37, is a highly reactive alkali metal known for its silvery-white appearance. Found in minerals like lepidolite and pollucite, rubidium was discovered in 1861 by Robert Bunsen and Gustav Kirchhoff using flame spectroscopy. Its name, derived from the Latin word "rubidus," means "deep red," referencing its characteristic spectral lines. In its elemental form, rubidium is soft and ductile, melting at 39.3°C and reacting vigorously with water and air. This reactivity makes it suitable for various specialized applications in different industries.

Properties and Applications

Rubidium's low ionization energy and high reactivity make it valuable in electronic and chemical industries. It is utilized in atomic clocks, research laboratories, and as a getter in vacuum tubes. The metal's ability to form amalgams with mercury and alloys with gold, cesium, sodium, and potassium expands its utility. Rubidium compounds, such as rubidium chloride, are used in biomedical research and as biomarkers due to their ability to replace potassium in biological processes. Its spectral properties also make rubidium useful in laser cooling and trapping experiments.

Market and Supply

Rubidium is less abundant than other alkali metals, contributing to its higher market value. It is primarily sourced as a byproduct of lithium and cesium production, with annual global production limited to a few tons. Major suppliers maintain stocks to meet the demand from specialized industries, ensuring short delivery times and competitive pricing. The metal's niche applications in high-precision devices, combined with its unique chemical properties, underscore its importance in advanced technological fields.

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