Definition

1. Noun:
   • A trivalent metallic element of the rare earth group: Holmium is a chemical element with the symbol Ho and atomic number 67. It is a part of the lanthanide series on the periodic table.
   • Occurs together with yttrium: In nature, holmium is not found as a free element but is always found in combination with other rare-earth elements, such as in minerals like gadolinite, often alongside yttrium.
   • Forms highly magnetic compounds: Holmium has the highest magnetic strength of any element, and its compounds exhibit strong paramagnetic properties.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Holmium is used in the creation of powerful magnets.
  • The scientist isolated a sample of holmium from the mineral mixture.
  • The laser's special glass contains traces of holmium.

Advanced Usage

• Scientific Context: In physics and materials science, "holmium" is often discussed for its exceptional magnetic properties.
  • The research focuses on the magnetic moments of holmium at low temperatures.
• Technological Application: It is used in specific industrial and medical contexts.
  • Holmium-doped lasers are used in medical and dental procedures.

Variants and Related Words

• Holmic (adj): Pertaining to or containing holmium.
  • The holmic oxide powder was carefully weighed.
• Holmium-166 (n): A radioactive isotope of holmium used in nuclear medicine.

Synonyms

• Element 67: Referring to its atomic number.
• Ho: Its chemical symbol.

Notes on Meaning

• Primary Meaning: The term almost exclusively refers to the chemical element. It does not have common idiomatic, phrasal verb, or figurative uses outside of scientific and technical fields.

Noun

1. a trivalent metallic element of the rare earth group; occurs together with yttrium; forms highly magnetic compounds