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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

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