Lanthanum

Lanthanum, La, is a silvery transition metallic element and is the first member of the lanthanide series of transition elements, found in Group IIIa of the periodic table.

Atomic Number : 57
Relative Atomic Mass : 139
Melting Point : 918 degC
Boiling Point : 3464 degC
Relative Density : 6.146

Lanthanum consists of two stable isotopes. Seventeen radioactive isotopes are known.

Discovery

Lanthanum was discovered by C G Mosander in 1839AD.

Occurrence

Lanthanum occurs with the rare earths in their ores.

Extraction

Lanthanum is separated from other rare earths by ion exchange chromatography.

Preparation

Lanthanum is prepared by reducing the anhydrous chloride with calcium.

Manufacture

Properties

Lanthanum is

a soft malleable silvery metal,
oxidises rapidly in air, and
is attacked by water.

Reactions

Uses

Lanthanum is used in alkali resistant glass.

Lanthanum is used in motion picture studio lighting.

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