Element 66

Dysprosium (Dy)

Dysprosium is a chemical element with symbol Dy and atomic number 66. It is a rare earth element with a metallic silver luster.

Atomic Number

66

Atomic Mass

162.5 u

Category

Lanthanide

Period

6

Group

Lanthanide series

Phase

solid

Density

8.55 g/cm3

Electron Shells

2, 8, 18, 28, 8, 2

Atomic Structure

Protons: 66. Electrons: 66. Neutrons: Varies by isotope.

Electron configuration: 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 5s² 4d¹⁰ 5p⁶ 6s² 4f¹⁰

Why Dysprosium Matters

Dysprosium helps connect atomic number 66, lanthanide behavior, period 6 trends, and electron shell structure. Its solid phase, atomic mass of 162.5 u, and electron configuration 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 5s² 4d¹⁰ 5p⁶ 6s² 4f¹⁰ make it useful for comparing bonding patterns across the periodic table.

Discovery and Occurrence

Dysprosium was discovered 1886 by Lecoq de Boisbaudran. Dysprosium is a chemical element with symbol Dy and atomic number 66. It is a rare earth element with a metallic silver luster.

Safety and Handling Context

Dysprosium is presented here for learning and comparison. Pure elements and laboratory compounds can have hazards that depend on dose, form, and setting.

Related Elements

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the atomic number of Dysprosium?
Dysprosium has atomic number 66, which means a neutral atom has 66 protons and 66 electrons.
What is the chemical symbol for Dysprosium?
The chemical symbol for Dysprosium is Dy.
What category is Dysprosium in?
Dysprosium is classified as a lanthanide and sits in period 6 of the periodic table.

Explore Dysprosium in 3D

Use the interactive table above to rotate atomic models, compare periodic trends, and move from Dysprosium to neighboring elements without losing your place.