LANTHANIUM Meaning and
Definition
-
Lanthanum is a chemical element with the symbol La and atomic number 57. It is a silvery-white, malleable and ductile metal that belongs to the group of rare-earth elements (lanthanides) in the periodic table. Lanthanum is the first element in the lanthanide series and is considered a transition metal.
In its pure form, lanthanum is soft and easily oxidizes when exposed to air, forming a protective layer of oxide on its surface. It is one of the most reactive of the rare-earth elements and readily reacts with water, acids, and bases.
Lanthanum is commonly used in various applications due to its unique properties. It is a component of hybrid vehicles' batteries, and it is used in the production of camera and telescope lenses due to its ability to absorb infrared light. Lanthanum compounds are also used in the petroleum industry as catalysts for cracking petroleum molecules.
Furthermore, lanthanum plays a vital role in the phosphor industry, as it is used to produce the red and green phosphors commonly found in television screens and fluorescent lamps. Its ability to readily form compounds with other elements makes it a versatile element for several industrial, technological, and scientific uses.
In summary, lanthanum is a rare-earth metal known for its malleable and reactive properties. Its applications range from batteries and lenses to the production of catalysts and phosphors, making it a valuable element in various industries.
-
A very rare metal occurring with cerium, by which its properties are, as it were, concealed.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for LANTHANIUM
- lnthanum
- lantanum
- lanthinum
- lantanium
- kanthanium
- panthanium
- oanthanium
- lznthanium
- lsnthanium
- lwnthanium
- lqnthanium
- labthanium
- lamthanium
- lajthanium
- lahthanium
- lanrhanium
- lanfhanium
- langhanium
- lanyhanium
- lan6hanium
Etymology of LANTHANIUM
The word "lanthanum" comes from the Greek word "lanthanein", which means "to lie hidden". This name was given to the element because it is a rare earth metal that is not easily found in nature. The element was named by Swedish chemist Carl Gustaf Mosander in 1839 when he discovered it while working with cerium compounds.
