Question
Download Solution PDFLanthanides along with which two elements are sometimes called 'rare earth elements'?
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFThe Correct answer is Yttrium and Scandium.
Key Points
- Lanthanides along with Yttrium and Scandium are often referred to as 'rare earth elements'.
- Rare earth elements are a group of 17 chemically similar elements, including the 15 lanthanides plus Yttrium and Scandium.
- Yttrium and Scandium are grouped with lanthanides because of their similar chemical properties and occurrence in the same mineral deposits.
- These elements are critical for applications in electronics, renewable energy technologies, aerospace, and defense industries.
- Examples of their uses include magnets, phosphors, batteries, and catalysts.
- Rare earth elements are typically found in low concentrations in the Earth's crust, making their extraction challenging and contributing to the term "rare."
- The geopolitical importance of rare earth elements is significant due to their role in high-tech applications and limited global production centers.
Additional Information
- Vanadium and Niobium
- Vanadium is a transition metal used primarily in steel alloys to improve hardness and durability.
- Niobium is used in superconducting materials and specialized steel alloys for aerospace and construction industries.
- These elements are not classified as rare earth elements due to their distinct chemical and physical properties.
- Ruthenium and Zirconium
- Ruthenium is a member of the platinum group metals and is used in electronics, catalysts, and jewelry.
- Zirconium is utilized for nuclear reactors, ceramics, and corrosion-resistant applications.
- These elements are not related to rare earth elements due to their differing classification and occurrence.
- Molybdenum and Palladium
- Molybdenum is a transition metal known for its use in steel alloys, electronics, and catalysts.
- Palladium, a platinum group metal, is used in automotive catalytic converters, electronics, and jewelry.
- These elements have distinct applications and are not part of the rare earth elements group.
Last updated on Jul 8, 2025
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