Overview
Holmium is a rare earth metal notable for its high magnetic moment and use in specialty lasers and magnetic applications.
Properties
It commonly forms +3 oxidation state compounds and exhibits strong paramagnetism useful in magnetic devices.
Occurrence and Uses
Used in solid state lasers, magnetic flux concentrators and research in nuclear and materials science.
Isotopes and Safety
Stable isotope Ho 165 is natural; holmium compounds are handled with standard industrial precautions.