Origin / Meaning of the name Lanthanum
The name originates from the Greek word lanthanein meaning 'to lie hidden' because it hid in cerium ore and was difficult to separate from that rare earth mineral.
Periodic Table Group and Classification of the of the Lanthanum Element
Elements can be classified based on their physical states (States of Matter) e.g. gas, solid or liquid. This element is a solid. Lanthanum 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. Nearly 75% of all the elements in the Periodic Table are classified as metals which are detailed in the List of Metals.
Facts about the Discovery and History of the Lanthanum Element
Lanthanum was discovered by Carl G. Mosander in 1839
Occurrence of the Lanthanum Element
Obtained chiefly from monazite and bastnaesite
Abundances of the element in different environments
% in Universe 2×10-7%
% in Sun 2×10-7%
% in Meteorites 0.000028%
% in Earth's Crust 0.0034%
% in Oceans 3.4×10-10%
% in Humans N/A
Associated Uses of Lanthanum
Glass manufacture
Carbon lights for movie and television studio lighting
Camera lenses
