Rare Earth Elements

The video explores lanthanides, their role in the periodic table, and their applications in modern technology. It discusses the challenges of extracting and refining rare earth elements, highlighting environmental and geopolitical issues. The video also covers global dependence on these elements, particularly China's dominance in processing them, and efforts to develop cleaner refining methods.

Why are lanthanides and actinides placed separately from the main periodic table?

• They are too reactive to be placed with other elements.

• They are not important enough to be included in the main table.

• Including them would make the table too large for standard formats.

• They are not naturally occurring elements.

What is a major use of lanthanides in modern technology?

• They are essential for making laptops and cell phones.

• They are primarily used in traditional metal alloys.

• They are used in the production of nuclear weapons.

• They are used in the construction of skyscrapers.

What is a significant challenge in the extraction of rare earth elements?

• They are only found in the ocean.

• They are too expensive to mine.

• They are found in large, easily accessible deposits.

• They are often mixed with other minerals, making extraction difficult.

Which country currently dominates the processing of rare earth elements?

• Australia

• China

• India

• United States

What innovative method is being used to manage toxic waste from rare earth processing in California?

• Burying the waste deep underground.

• Using interlocked plastic balls to cover wastewater pools.

• Recycling the waste into new products.

• Shipping the waste to other countries.