neodymium
Definition
Neodymium is a chemical element with the symbol Nd and atomic number 60. It is a soft, silvery-white metal that is chemically similar to lanthanides. Neodymium is a rare-earth element, meaning that it is found in relatively small concentrations in the Earth's crust.
Neodymium is the strongest type of permanent magnet known to science. This is due to its high magnetic moment, which is caused by its unpaired electrons. Neodymium magnets are used in a variety of products, including electric motors, generators, and hard drives.
Neodymium is also used to make lasers. Neodymium lasers are used in a variety of applications, including surgery, manufacturing, and telecommunications.
Neodymium is a valuable metal, but it is also a limited resource. Scientists are working to find ways to recycle neodymium so that it can be used again.
How can the word be used?
Neodymium is a rare-earth element that is found in the mineral monazite.
Different forms of the word
Noun: A chemical element with the symbol Nd and atomic number 60.
Adjective: Relating to neodymium.
Etymology
The word "neodymium" comes from the Greek words "neos" (new) and "didymos" (twin). The Greek words "neos" and "didymos" are combined to mean "new twin.".
The word "neodymium" was first used in 1885 by Carl Auer von Welsbach. He named the element after its discovery as a new twin of didymium, which was later shown to be a mixture of two elements: neodymium and praseodymium.
Question
What is neodymium used for?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the significance of neodymium in modern technology and its role in sustainable energy production. Provide examples of its applications and discuss its environmental impact.
Answer:
Neodymium, a rare earth element, has gained immense importance in modern technology, particularly in the realm of sustainable energy. Its magnetic properties make it a critical component of high-performance magnets used in various applications. One prominent example is its role in permanent magnets found in wind turbines, electric vehicles, and even computer hard drives.
In the context of sustainable energy production, neodymium is a key player in the generation of clean electricity. Wind turbines utilise neodymium-based magnets to convert kinetic energy from the wind into electrical energy, contributing to the reduction of fossil fuel dependency and greenhouse gas emissions.
However, the extraction and production of neodymium are not without challenges. The mining process can be environmentally damaging and energy-intensive, which raises concerns about the overall sustainability of neodymium-based technologies. Additionally, the disposal of products containing neodymium magnets poses potential environmental hazards due to their long-lasting nature.