Neodymium
Neodymium, Nd, is a silvery metallic element, which is found in the
lanthanide series of inner transition metals in
Group IIIa of the
periodic table.
- Atomic Number : 60
- Relative Atomic Mass : 122.24
- Melting Point : 1016 degC
- Boiling Point : 3068 degC
- Relative Density : 7
Neodymium consists of seven stable isotopes.
Seven radioactive isotopes are also known.
Discovery
Neodymium was discovered by Mosander in 1841AD.
Neodymium was isolated as its oxide by C.A. von Welsbach in 1885 AD.
The pure metal was isolated in 1925 AD.
Occurrence
Neodymium occurs in monazite and bastnasite.
Extraction
Neodymium is separated from other rare earths by ion exchange
chromatography.
Preparation
Neodymium is prepared by reducing anhydrous neodymium fluoride with
calcium.
Properties
Neodymium is a soft malleable silvery metal, which oxidises rapidly in air.
Uses
Neodymium is used
- to impart a range of colours, from violet to warm red to warm gray,
to glass,
in welding goggles to filter out UV light,
- in lasers.
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