Cerium
Cerium is a chemical element with the symbol Ce and atomic number 58. It is a soft, silvery-gray metal belonging to the lanthanide group. Cerium is the most common rare earth metal and is widely used in industry because of its distinctive physical and chemical properties.
Physical and Chemical Properties
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Density: about 6.77 g/cm³
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Melting point: approx. 798 °C
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Softness: relatively soft, easy to cut and shape
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Oxidation: quickly oxidizes in air forming a protective oxide layer
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Reactivity: reacts with water and many acids releasing hydrogen
Uses of Cerium
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Catalysts: cerium oxide (CeO2) used in vehicle exhaust catalysts
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Glass and ceramics: polishing agents and heat-resistant glass production
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Metallurgy: alloying element to improve metal properties
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Fuels: ignition stones for lighters and gas burners
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Electronics: phosphors and doping agents in semiconductors
Advantages
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Effective catalyst
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Excellent polishing agent
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Improves metal alloys
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Most abundant rare earth metal, relatively accessible
Summary:
Cerium is a versatile metal with key industrial uses due to its special physical and chemical properties.