Atomic Number of Lanthanum

Atomic Number of Lanthanum is 57.

Chemical symbol for Lanthanum is La. Number of protons in Lanthanum is 57. Atomic weight of Lanthanum is 138.90547 u or g/mol. Melting point of Lanthanum is 920 °C and its the boiling point is 3454 °C.

About Lanthanum

It is a silver light metal which forms its own group of chemical elements known as lanthanides. The name of this element comes from the Greek expression meaning lying hidden. This element has no biological importance and generally does not exist in living cells. Lanthanium can be found in very small amounts in some minerals and natural chemical compounds. Industrial applications of this element include producing batteries for hybrid cars and other devices, carbon lighting, igniting mechanisms for cigarette lighters, cinema and studio projectors, etc. Oxide of this element is used for producing optical glass as well as plays a role of an effective catalyst for some chemical processes including petroleum refining and others.

Uses of Lanthanum

Lanthanum, a silvery-white and soft metallic element with the symbol La, was used in gas lantern mantles. Applications of lanthanum include carbon arc lighting, studio lighting and projection. It is also used for the manufacture of hybrid automobiles. Lanthanum compounds are mostly employed as catalysts. They are used in glass, electronic vacuum tubes, camera and telescope lenses, lighters, torches, GTAW electrodes, electron cathodes, phosphor lamp coatings, etc.

Compounds with Lanthanum

• La₂O₃: Lanthanum oxide
• LaCl₃: Lanthanum(III) chloride
• LaH₂: Lanthanum dihydride
• LaB₆: Lanthanum hexaboride
• LaF₃: Lanthanum trifluoride

Properties of Lanthanum Element