Cerium

Cerium, represented by the symbol Ce and with an atomic number of 58, is a member of the lanthanide series in Group 3 of the periodic table. It has an atomic mass of 140.12 g/mol and is classified in the f-block, with the electron configuration of [Xe] 6s² 4f¹. Cerium was discovered in 1803 by chemists Jöns Jacob Berzelius and Wilhelm Hisinger. The element's name is derived from the asteroid Ceres, which was identified shortly before the element's discovery.

1.0Introduction  

Cerium is an inner transition metal in the lanthanide series, characterised by its silvery-white appearance. Although cerium is a soft, malleable, and ductile metal, it is relatively harder than lead.

As a rare earth metal, cerium ranks 25th in abundance, with an average distribution of 20-60 parts per million (ppm), making it the most abundant among the lanthanides. Cerium has anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and antioxidant qualities that aid in lowering oxidative stress, which is connected to several illnesses. Foods including orange bell peppers, cucumbers, spinach, and black-eyed peas contain it.

2.0Physical Properties of Cerium 

3.0Chemical Properties of Cerium 

Cerium has a short half-life of 1.02 seconds for certain radioactive isotopes.

1. Reactivity: Moderately reactive; it reacts slowly with oxygen in the air, forming a protective oxide layer.
2. Oxidation States: The most common oxidation states are +3 and +4.
3. Compounds:

Cerium can form a variety of compounds, including cerium(III) oxide (Ce₂O₃), cerium(IV) oxide (CeO₂), and cerium chloride (CeCl₃).

At room temperature, it readily oxidises to form cerium(IV) oxide:

Ce+O₂→CeO_2​

When cerium reacts with hydrofluoric acid (HF), it forms a protective layer of cerium fluoride: 

2Ce + 6HF → 2CeF₃ + 3H₂↑

4.0Uses of Cerium 

• When used as a catalyst in car catalytic converters, catalysts help cut down on hazardous emissions.
• Glass Manufacturing: It improves the colour and strength of ceramics and glass while it is being made.
• Metallurgy: Used in the creation of ferrocerium, a substance that resembles flint and is frequently found in lighters.
• Phosphors are a component of phosphorescent materials like LED lights and colour TV tubes.

5.0Safety and Handling

• Toxicity: Cerium is generally regarded as having low toxicity, but precautions should be taken to avoid inhaling dust or fumes.
• Storage: It should be stored in a dry, airtight container to prevent oxidation and maintain its properties.