Lanthanoids, also known as the lanthanide series or rare earth elements, refer to a group of chemical elements found within the periodic table. The term "lanthanoid" derives from the first element of this series, lanthanum (La). The lanthanoid series consists of 15 elements that follow the atomic number sequence from 57 to 71, including cerium (Ce), praseodymium (Pr), neodymium (Nd), promethium (Pm), samarium (Sm), europium (Eu), gadolinium (Gd), terbium (Tb), dysprosium (Dy), holmium (Ho), erbium (Er), thulium (Tm), ytterbium (Yb), lutetium (Lu), and yttrium (Y).
These elements share several common characteristics. Lanthanoids are all metals, with silvery-white or grayish appearances. They possess similar electron configurations, resulting in comparable chemical properties. Their location in the periodic table makes them transition metals, positioned between the alkaline earth metals and the actinide series.
Lanthanoids are widely used in various applications due to their unique properties. They have notable magnetic and electrical behavior, making them crucial components in magnets, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient lighting. Their luminescent properties are integral to the production of phosphors, lasers, and television screens. Lanthanoids also find uses in catalysts for numerous chemical reactions, as well as in the creation of high-performance lenses and optical glasses.
While lanthanoids are present in nature, they are typically found in low concentrations. Extracting and refining these elements can be challenging and costly, yet they play an essential role in numerous technological advancements
