Definition

Noun: 1. Any element of the lanthanide series (atomic numbers 57 through 71): A rare earth is one of a set of seventeen metallic chemical elements. These elements are not typically found as free metals in nature and share very similar chemical properties. The term "rare earth" is somewhat misleading, as these elements are relatively abundant in the Earth's crust, but they are rarely concentrated in mineable deposits. 2. The oxide of one of these elements: Historically, the term was also used to refer to the oxides of these elements, which were some of the first isolated compounds.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Element):
  • Neodymium, a rare earth, is critical for manufacturing powerful permanent magnets used in electric vehicles and wind turbines.
  • The global supply chain for rare earths is a matter of strategic importance for many high-tech industries.
  • Scientists are researching ways to recycle rare earth elements from electronic waste.

Advanced Usage

• "Rare earth element (REE)": This is the more precise and formal term used in scientific and industrial contexts to refer to these metals.
  • The periodic table has a dedicated block for the rare earth elements.
• "Rare earth mineral": Refers to the minerals from which these elements are extracted, such as monazite or bastnäsite.
  • The mountain contained a significant deposit of rare earth minerals.

Variants and Related Words

• Lanthanide (noun): This is the strict scientific term for the series of fifteen elements from lanthanum (57) to lutetium (71). Scandium and yttrium are often included with the lanthanides in discussions of "rare earths" due to similar chemical behavior and common occurrence in the same ore deposits.
• Rare-earth metal (noun): A synonym emphasizing the metallic nature of these elements.

Synonyms

• Lanthanide (for elements 57-71)
• Rare-earth metal
• Rare earth element (REE)

Related Phrases

• Rare earth magnet: A strong permanent magnet made from alloys of rare earth elements.
  • The headphones use rare earth magnets for superior sound quality.
• Rare earth crisis/competition: Refers to geopolitical and economic tensions arising from the control and supply of these critical materials.
  • The trade dispute highlighted the potential for a rare earth competition between the major economies.

Noun

1. any element of the lanthanide series (atomic numbers 57 through 71)