Rubidium (Rb)

Rubidium (Rb)

Atomic Number: 37
Atomic Weight: 85.47
Melting Point: 38.89
Boiling Point: 688
Specific Gravity: 1.532 (solid) 1.475 (liquid)
Valences: 1,2,3,4

Rubidium was discovered in 1861 by Bunsen and Kirchoff. Rubidium is radioactive. Since Rubidium is easily ionized, it may be used for "ion engines" in futuristic space vehicles. The element is also used as a component in photocells and in the making of special glasses. [LM] {RW}