Ytterbium(III) nitride

Ytterbium(III) nitride is a binary inorganic compound of ytterbium and nitrogen with the chemical formula YbN.

Synthesis
Ytterbium(III) nitride can be prepared from the reaction of ytterbium hydride and ammonia at 800°C:
 * 2YbH2 + 2NH3 -> 2YbN + 5H2

It can also be prepared from the reaction of ytterbium and nitrogen with an admixture of hydrogen under pressure at 500–600°C::
 * 2Yb + N2 -> 2YbN

Physical properties
Ytterbium(III) nitride forms a black powder. The compound is notable for its high melting point.

Uses
Ytterbium(III) nitride holds potential applications in the fields of electronics and optics. It is also used as an additive for special alloys, ceramic materials, semiconductors.