How Do You Find Out More About Lanthanum?
Lanthanum, the 57th element, comprises 2 parts per billion of the matter in the universe. Lanthanum is the first of the lanthanide metals, often called the rare earths, which include all elements from lanthanum to lutetium. This element has much to offer students of both science and history. The following steps will aid in your search for information about this fascinating element. Read up on Greek roots and history. Look for information on why lanthanum is named for the Greek word “lanthanein,” meaning “to lie hidden.” Be sure to look for facts about how lanthanum is well hidden as a rare earth element. Find out why the discovery of lanthanum is credited to Carl Mosander in 1839. Read up on scientific history to know that lanthanum was isolated in relatively pure form in 1923. Read about geology to understand why monazite and bastnasite are the primary lanthanum ores; other lanthanum-bearing minerals include allanite and cerite. Study world economics to see that it is mined in Austral
