Neodymium

60
Nd
144.24

neody.jpg (2098 bytes)
Used in the making of certain light bulbs.

Properties
Symbol Name Atomic Number Atomic Weight Group Number
Nd Neodymium 60 144.24

Description

Standard State: solid at 298 K
Color: silvery white, yellowish tinge

In 1841, Mosander extracted cerite which became didymium. In 1885 he separated didymium  into two different elements giving us Neodymium. Neodymium is present in the minerals monazite, and bastasite, which are principal sources of rare-earth elements. The metal has a bright silvery metallic luster and one of the more reactive rare-earth metals. Neodymium quickly tarnishes in air, forming an oxide that spills off and exposes metal to oxidation.  The glass has been used in astronomical work to produce sharp band by which spectral lines may be calibrated.