Neodymium
nee-eh-DIM-i-em
Neodymium (Nd) is a silvery white coloured metal that has the atomic number 60 in the periodic table. It is a Lanthanide metal. It has the symbol Nd.
Neodymium was identified in 1885 by the Austrian scientist, Carl Welsbach. Through his work with the ‘element’ Didymium he identified Neodymium and Praseodymium as the two elements that make up this compound. Neodymium was named after ‘neos didymos’ the Ancient Greek for new twin. Neodymium is used in the production of permanent magnets with boron and iron, these magnets have a wide range of uses in computers and mobile phones. Neodymium is not found in the earth’s crust as a free element but in the minerals monazite and bastnaesite. It is a solid metal at room temperature with a melting point of 1024°c and a boiling point of 3074°c.
FAQ's
C.F. Aver von Welsbach
1925
Uses
Used in making artificial ruby for lasers. Also in ceramics and for a special lens with praseodymium. Also to produce bright purple glass and special glass that filters infrared radiation. Makes up 18% of Mich metal, which is used in making steel.
Sources
Made from electrolysis of its halide salts, which are made from monazite sand.
About the author
Nathan M
Nathan has a degree in BSc Biomedical Chemistry at Warwick University and a degree in PGCE Science at Wolverhampton University, UK. Nathan's subject matter ranges from general chemistry and organic chemistry. Nathan also created the curriculum on Breaking Atom in the course page.
Citation
Nd
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