lanthanoid
- noun
- /ˈlænθənɔɪd/
- Specialized
- The lanthanoid elements, ranging from lanthanum to lutetium, are essential in various technological applications.
Examples
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Neodymium, a lanthanoid, is used in high-performance speakers and headphones.
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Industrial processes often extract lanthanoids from mineral ores found in China.
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The lanthanoid elements are crucial in the manufacture of strong permanent magnets.
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The lanthanoid elements are critical for modern electronics.
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Did you know that lanthanoids are used in making strong magnets?
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Neodymium, a lanthanoid, is widely used in powerful speakers and magnetic devices.
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Researchers are studying how lanthanoids can improve the efficiency of batteries.
Synonyms
A group of metals used in electronics and industry
A metal like neodymium used in electronics and strong magnets
A group of fifteen metals like cerium used in magnets and lasers
A metal with an atomic number from 57 to 71
Surface Forms
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.