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Definition of the Cerium Element
A lustrous, iron-gray, malleable metallic rare-earth element
that occurs chiefly in the minerals monazite and bastnaesite,
exists in four allotropic states, is a constituent of lighter
flint alloys, and is used in various metallurgical and nuclear
applications.
Origin / Meaning of the name Cerium
The name originates
from the asteroid Ceres.
Classification of the Cerium Element
Cerium classified as
an element in the Lanthanide series as one of the "Rare Earth
Elements" which can located in Group 3 elements of the Periodic
Table and in the 6th and 7th periods. The Rare Earth Elements are
divided into the Lanthanide and Actinide series. The elements in
the Lanthanide series closely resemble lanthanum, and one another,
in their chemical and physical properties. Their compounds are
used as catalysts in the production of petroleum and synthetic
products.
The
Discovery of Cerium
Cerium was discovered by
Jons Jacob Berzelius and Wilhelm von Hisinger
in Sweden in 1803.
Facts about the History of the Cerium
Element
Properties within each individual group are similar, but
nevertheless vary within a group. Generally chemical activity
decreases as the period increases a non-metal group and increases
as the period increases within a metal group. The first element in
a group is always an active metal, the last is always an inactive
non-metal.
Occurrence the Cerium Element
Obtained from monazite
and bastnaesite
Associated Uses of Cerium
Making aluminium alloys
Cigarette lighters
Incandescent gas mantles
Petroleum refining
Arc lighting
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