Lanthanum
by Yogi P - October 23, 2023
Lanthanum: Today’s Everyday Element
Lanthanum is a lanthanide metal element found in the periodic table of elements under the atomic number of 57 . It has the atomic symbol of La and an atomic mass of 138.91. Lanthanum has a melting point of 918°C and a boiling point of 3464°C. Its density is 6.162 g/cm3 and it has a valence of 3.
History of Lanthanum
Lanthanum was first discovered in 1839 by Carl Gustav Mosander. Mosander isolated the element after discovering that an impurity in cerium nitrate could be dissolved in nitric acid. His further observation of the separated impurity, lanthanum, was the beginning of a new wave of discoveries in the lanthanide metals.
Uses of Lanthanum
Lanthanum is used in a variety of practical applications. Its uses range from optical lenses, novelty items, and phosphors in televisions to phosphors and other items in camera lenses, flints used in lighters, and electrodes used in batteries.
Lanthanum is also used in steel refining, where it helps remove unwanted sulfur.
In some industries, Lanthanum is used as an alloying element to increase the corrosion resistance and strength of steel and cast iron. It is also used in certain military applications, such as for uranium docking in nuclear submarines.
Summary of the various practical applications of lanthanum:
| Used in | Description |
|---|---|
| Optical Lenses | Lanthanum is used in optical lenses for its optical properties, contributing to clear and high-quality lenses for cameras and other optical devices. |
| Phosphors | Lanthanum is used in the production of phosphors for televisions, camera lenses, and other applications where it enhances light emission. |
| Lighters | Lanthanum is used in flints for lighters, creating sparks to ignite the fuel. |
| Batteries | Lanthanum is used in electrodes for batteries, contributing to improved battery performance. |
| Steel Refining | Lanthanum is used in steel refining to remove unwanted sulfur, improving the quality of steel. |
| Alloying Element | Lanthanum is used as an alloying element in certain industries to increase the corrosion resistance and strength of steel and cast iron. |
| Military Applications | Lanthanum has military applications, such as uranium docking in nuclear submarines. |
Safety precautions for Lanthanum
Safety precautions must be taken when working with this element. When working with lanthanum, it is essential to wear proper safety equipment and follow proper disposal methods to limit contact with potentially hazardous materials. It is also important to store Lanthanum in a safe and secure location.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lanthanum is an essential element for many practical applications. Its key properties such as a high melting point and low toxicity make it an ideal element for many industries. With the discovery of its unique properties, Lanthanum is now used in everyday situations to make life simpler.
From batteries to steel refining, Lanthanum is a necessary part of our daily lives.
