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Neodymium Nd
Where is neodymium used--or where does it impact your everyday life?
Used for very strong magnets
Supermagnets are used in hybrid car motors. Neodymium is alloyed with other metals to make strong, lighter-weight motors. Terbium and dysprosium increase the heat resistance of the neodymium, so the neodymium is less likely to melt. Seen in the photograph is Biology teacher Ms. S with the engine bay of her hybrid car.
Neodymium, Symbol Nd
Atomic Number: 60
Atomic Mass: 144.24
Melting Pt.: 1016°C [1861°F] 1289°K
Boiling Pt.: 3074°C [5563°F] 3347°K
Density: 7.01 g/mL
Solid at room temp.
Electron config: [Xe] 4f1 6s2
Reaction with air: rapidly tarnishes
With water: reacts
Researcher: Ariel R
The metal flints that produce sparks for igniting Zippo lighters are made of mischmetal: 38% cerium alloyed with ~4% praesodymium, neodymium, ~22% lanthanum and magnesium with ~20% iron. Many thanks to (Biology) Ms. S's fiance for the image of the lighter.
More misch metal in the Bunsen burner lighter flints-up to 50% lanthanum, with ~33% cerium and praesodymium and neodymium alloyed with ~20% iron
WIS Photographer
Replacement misch metal flints
WIS Photographer