Understanding the scientific rationale behind Lutetium's position in the periodic table:
Final member of the Lanthanide series, bridging the 4f shell into the 5d transition metals (Group 3).
Belongs to Period 6 because its outermost electrons occupy n=6.
Electronically a d-block element ([Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d¹ 6s²), marking the complete filling of the 4f subshell.
Classified as a lanthanide rare earth metal.
Hover or tap any shell orbit ring to inspect electron counts and 2n² capacities.
Educational Note: This Niels Bohr planetary model visually illustrates principal quantum energy shells ($n=1, 2, 3\dots$) and electron counts. In modern quantum mechanics (Schrödinger model), electrons do not orbit in fixed circular planetary tracks, but exist as 3D probability clouds (orbitals: $s, p, d, f$) governed by the Heisenberg uncertainty principle.
Neutral ground state configuration. Valence electrons: 3.
Extracted in very low concentrations from monazite and xenotime ores; one of the costliest rare earths.
From 'Lutetia', the ancient Roman Latin name for Paris
Low physiological toxicity; metal powder is a combustible dust hazard.