- Definition of La
La, or Lanthanum, is a chemical element in the periodic table with the symbol La and atomic number 57. The English name for “La” is “Lanthanum”. It falls under group 3, period 6 of the periodic table. The atomic mass of La is 138.90547(7) u, it belongs to the lanthanide series and is a transition metal.
The molecular structure of La is relatively simple with the outermost electron shell located at position 5d. In the ionized state, La often forms La3+ ions.
- Properties of La
2.1 Physical properties of La
La is a silver-colored metal, with no distinctive odor. The standard state of La at room temperature is solid. The pH of La is not clearly defined as it is insoluble in water.
2.2 Chemical properties of La
La is very reactive and easily reacts with most other substances, including air, hence it is often stored in mineral oil to avoid contact with air.
- Common chemical equations of La
La often reacts with non-metals such as oxygen, sulfur, chlorine to form compounds. For example:
- Manufacturing of La
4.1 Laboratory manufacturing of La
La is usually extracted from minerals such as monazite and bastnasite through a complex process involving melting, thermal process, and the use of strong acids.
4.2 Industrial manufacturing of La
The industrial production of La usually involves mining natural ore deposits containing lanthanides, then separating lanthanum through chemical reactions and high temperatures.