How to Research Neodymium

Neodymium, the 60th element, makes up 10 parts per billion of the matter in the universe. Neodymium is a rare earth metal in the lanthanide series with relatively few uses. The following steps will aid in your search for information about this fascinating element.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Periodic chart

1. Read up on Greek roots and history to learn that the name neodymium comes from the Greek word "neos," meaning new, and "didymos," meaning twin. Neodymium is found in didymium along with another rare earth element, praseodymium.
2. Look for information about the discovery of neodymium in 1885 by Austrian chemist Baron C. F. Auer von Welsbach. He separated didymium into two elements: neodymium and praseodymium.
3. Read about geology to learn that neodymium is found as an impurity in the rare earth minerals monazite and bastnasite. Australia, China, India, Russia and the United States produce neodymium, and it is usually prepared by ion exchange from monazite and bastnasite.
4. Search chemistry and physics Web sites and books to learn about the best-known aspect of neodymium--its close association with praseodymium. Look for facts about neodymium's appearance, reactivity and other chemical and physical properties.
5. Look for information on the chemical properties of neodymium. In addition to using it in powerful magnets, we use neodymium ions with certain transparent materials for infrared filters in lasers, astronomical work and tanning beds. Neodymium is also used to color glass, such as welder's goggles.

Tips & Warnings

• Neodymium powder is a fire and explosion hazard. Its powder and salts are irritants. Neodymium compounds are moderately toxic, like all rare earth metals.