Gadolinium (Gd) is a chemical element with atomic number (Z) 64, group n/a, period 6, and atomic weight 157.25. The Gadolinium (Gd) is a soft, shiny, ductile, silvery metal belonging to the lanthanide group of the periodic chart used in control rods for nuclear reactors and nuclear power plants. (Refer to the Chemical Element; Periodic Table)