Entity: RUBIDIUM
Rubidium is a soft silvery metallic element of the alkali metal group that reacts violently with water and bursts into flame spontaneously in air. It was discovered in 1861 by German chemists Robert Bunsen and Gustav Kirchhoff.
RUBIDIUM
Etymology
The name 'rubidium' comes from the Latin word 'rubidus', meaning deep red, which refers to the color of its emission spectrum.
Definition
Rubidium is a soft silvery metallic element of the alkali metal group that reacts violently with water and bursts into flame spontaneously in air.
Historical Context
Rubidium was discovered in 1861 by German chemists Robert Bunsen and Gustav Kirchhoff using flame spectroscopy, a newly developed technique at the time.
Cultural Significance
Rubidium's compounds have various chemical and electronic applications, including use in photoelectric cells and radio vacuum tubes.
Related Concepts
Rubidium is part of the alkali metal group and shares similarities with potassium in its properties and uses.
See Also
- [Potassium](link to potassium entry)
- [Alkali Metals](link to alkali metals entry)
A silver-white, metallic, active element resembling potassium, used in photoelectric cells and radio vacuum tubes.