Cerium (Ce)
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- Key Properties:
- The most abundant of the rare-earth metals, relatively soft and easily oxidized.
- Found in ores alongside other rare earth metals (e.g., bastnäsite, monazite).
Applications:
- Catalysts: Cerium is a component of automotive catalytic converters, enhancing exhaust gas purification efficiency.
- Glass Industry: Cerium additives are used for glass polishing and UV protection (e.g., light filters).
- Lighter Alloys (Ferrocerium): Cerium mixed with other lanthanoids forms "flint" (spark-producing alloy).
- Metallurgy: Used as a deoxidizer and inclusion modifier in cast iron and steel, improving mechanical properties.
Description
Chemical Symbol: Ce
Periodic Table Position: 58th element (part of the lanthanoid group)
Main Characteristics
- Appearance: Silvery-gray, soft metal (the most abundant and accessible lanthanoid).
- Physical Properties: Density ~6.77 g/cm³, melting point ~795°C.
- Chemical Reactivity: Easily oxidizes in air; reacts with water at elevated temperatures.
Key Applications
- Catalysts:
- Cerium oxide (CeO₂) is widely used in catalytic converters for automobiles and in the chemical industry.
- Glass Manufacturing:
- Used to decolorize glass (removing the green tint caused by iron impurities) and protect against UV radiation.
- Polishing Materials:
- Cerium oxide (Ceria) is used for polishing optical elements, glass, and displays.
- Metal Alloys and Flintstones:
- Part of special flint alloys (cerium, lanthanum, iron, etc.) that produce sparks when struck.
Interesting Facts
- Named after the dwarf planet Ceres.
- The most abundant and accessible rare earth element: its crustal abundance is about 68 ppm (higher than tin).
- Uniqueness: Used in catalysts, glass industry, and alloys.
- Importance: Crucial for environmental protection (catalysts) and material processing technologies.
- Extraction Challenges: Requires processing large volumes of ore.
