Rare earth elements

Definition

Rare earth elements are a set of 17 chemical elements in the periodic table, specifically the 15 lanthanides plus scandium and yttrium. These elements are crucial in various high-tech industries due to their unique magnetic, luminescent, and electrochemical properties.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. They are often found together in mineral deposits and are difficult to separate due to their similar chemical properties.
2. Despite their name, rare earth elements are relatively abundant in the Earth's crust but are rarely found in concentrated forms.
3. The most common method of extraction is through solvent extraction or ion exchange techniques.
4. These elements play a vital role in manufacturing electronic devices, magnets, batteries, and various other technological applications.
5. Their unique properties arise from unpaired $f$-electrons which result in complex electron configurations.

Review Questions

• What makes rare earth elements difficult to separate from each other?
• Why are rare earth elements important for modern technology?
• Explain one common method used for the extraction of rare earth elements.

Related terms

Lanthanides:

A group of 15 metallic elements from lanthanum (La) to lutetium (Lu) on the periodic table, known for their high reactivity and commonly included within rare earths.

Solvent Extraction: A separation process used to extract compounds based on their solubility in two different immiscible liquids, often used for purifying rare earth elements.

Coordination Chemistry:

A branch of chemistry dealing with complex compounds formed between metal ions and organic or inorganic ligands which can be crucial for understanding the behaviors of transition metals including rare earths.