Holmium (Noun)
Meaning
A trivalent metallic element of the rare earth group; occurs together with yttrium; forms highly magnetic compounds.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- Holmium is one of the most paramagnetic of the elements, making it highly sought after for use in magnetic alloys.
- The crystal structure of holmium consists of two hexagonal close-packed forms, the most common of which is the alpha phase.
- Holmium has a number of applications, including in the manufacture of magnetic ceramics and other high magnetic compounds.
- Due to its high magnetic strength, holmium is used in the manufacture of neodymium magnets, which are among the strongest permanent magnets known.
- Research on the effects of extreme pressures on holmium has shown that it undergoes structural changes that significantly alter its magnetic properties.