What is Lanthanide?
Lanthanides are the rare earth elements of the modern periodic table, consisting of 15 metallic elements with atomic numbers from 57 to 71, following the element lanthanum. They are also referred to as lanthanoids and are part of the f-block of the periodic table. The lanthanides have similar configurations and exhibit identical physical and chemical behavior, with the most common valences being 3 and 4. These elements are known for their high density and melting points and are available in ‘monazite’ sand as lanthanide orthophosphate. They are also called f-block elements.
Properties of Lanthanides Series
The lanthanide series, also called the lanthanoid series, is a group of 15 elements whose atomic numbers are from 57 to 71. These elements are rare earth metals and have different properties. Some of the important properties of the lanthanides are:
- The lanthanides have many similar physical properties, such as soft and silvery-white metals that burn when exposed to air.
- The most common oxidation state for lanthanides is +3, and they can also exhibit +2 and +4 oxidation states. Due to the slight change in ionic radii, the lanthanides have similar chemical properties, making their separation challenging.
- Lanthanides have various applications, including lasers, magnets, eyeglasses, lighter flints, safety glasses, and medical devices.
- The lanthanides are essential elements with many uses and unique chemical properties, making them a significant group in the periodic table. Ce3+ can lose its single f electron to form Ce4+ with a stable electronic configuration.
Lanthanide Contraction
Lanthanide Contraction is a phenomenon that describes the steady decrease in the size of the atoms and ions of the rare-earth elements as the atomic number increases. The lanthanide contraction is a significant factor in the close chemical similarity of the rare-earth elements and affects the properties of the post-lanthanide elements. This phenomenon has implications for various properties, such as atomic size, density, and chemical reactivity.
Table of Content
- What is Lanthanide?
- What is Lanthanide Contraction?
- Consequences of Lanthanide Contraction
- Cause of Lanthanide Contraction
- Electronic Configuration of Lanthanide