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lanthanoid

lanthanoid

9.9
One of fifteen metals used to make magnets and electronic parts
  • noun
  • /ˈlænθənɔɪd/
  • Specialized
translation icon : lantánido
  • The lanthanoid elements, ranging from lanthanum to lutetium, are essential in various technological applications.

Examples

  • Neodymium, a lanthanoid, is used in high-performance speakers and headphones.

  • Industrial processes often extract lanthanoids from mineral ores found in China.

  • The lanthanoid elements are crucial in the manufacture of strong permanent magnets.

  • The lanthanoid elements are critical for modern electronics.

  • Did you know that lanthanoids are used in making strong magnets?

  • Neodymium, a lanthanoid, is widely used in powerful speakers and magnetic devices.

  • Researchers are studying how lanthanoids can improve the efficiency of batteries.

Synonyms

rare earth
vslanthanoid
  • Specialized
11 6.6

A group of metals used in electronics and industry

focuses on their being found together in ores rather than their industrial role
rare-earth element
vslanthanoid
  • Specialized
1 6.3

A metal like neodymium used in electronics and strong magnets

stresses their natural grouping in ores rather than use in industry
lanthanide
vslanthanoid
  • Specialized
1 9.9

A group of fifteen metals like cerium used in magnets and lasers

focuses on their common occurrence together in ores rather than numbering
lanthanon
vslanthanoid
  • Specialized
9.9

A metal with an atomic number from 57 to 71

is the other spelling used for the identical element group

Surface Forms

lanthanoid singular
lanthanoids plural

Morphology

lanthanoid = lanthanum (semi-transparent) = lanthano + oid

Formed from the combining form 'lanthano-' plus the suffix '-oid' meaning 'like/related to lanthanum', but the specific chemical-group sense is technical rather than immediately apparent to general learners.

Etymology

Lanthanoid comes from lanthanum, which comes from an old Greek word meaning 'to lie hidden' because the metal was hard to find in rocks. The ending -oid means 'like', as in asteroid, so lanthanoid means elements 'like' lanthanum — the group of rare earth elements often found together in ores.