Rare Earth Metals
Rare Earth Metals are a group of 17 chemical elements found in the periodic table, including lanthanum, cerium, and neodymium. Despite their name, these metals are not particularly rare in terms of abundance in the Earth's crust, but they are often dispersed and difficult to extract. They play a crucial role in various high-tech applications, such as smartphones, electric vehicles, and renewable energy technologies.
These metals are essential for producing strong magnets, phosphors, and catalysts. The demand for rare earth metals has increased significantly due to the growth of green technologies and electronics. However, their extraction and processing can have environmental impacts, leading to concerns about sustainability and resource management.