Erbium

Erbium is a silvery-white, soft metal that belongs to the lanthanide series of elements, often called rare earth metals. It’s commonly used in fiber optic communications to amplify signals, helping internet and data transfer systems work efficiently over long distances. Additionally, erbium can emit visible and infrared light when activated by certain energy sources, making it useful in medical lasers and imaging. Though relatively rare in nature, erbium’s unique optical properties and stability make it valuable in technology, telecommunications, and some medical applications.