Rare Earth (Noun)
Meaning
Any element of the lanthanide series (atomic numbers 57 through 71).
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The mine was a rich source of rare earth elements, including neodymium and dysprosium.
- China's control of the global rare earth market has been a source of concern for many countries.
- The extraction and processing of rare earth elements can be environmentally hazardous if not done properly.
- Rare earth magnets are used in many applications, including wind turbines and electric vehicles.
- The rare earth element cerium is used as a catalyst in the production of petroleum.