Rare earth elements (REE) are a group of 17 elements, including the 15 elements of the lanthanide series on the periodic table of elements together with the transition metals scandium and yttrium. The latter two elements exhibit similar properties to the lanthanides and are found in the same ore bodies. REEs are key components in many electronic devices that we use in our daily lives, as well as in a variety of industrial applications(Canada, 2018).
More so, rare earth elements (REEs) make today’s emerging technologies possible from the miniaturization of electronics, to the enabling of “green” and medical technologies, to supporting essential defense, telecommunication, and transportation systems. REEs have unique magnetic, phosphorescent, and catalytic properties. In permanent magnets, they radically boost the magnetic strength, benefiting a wide array of uses(“Rare Earth Elements,” n.d.).
From your smartphone to electric vehicles, these elements are absolutely vital yet often unseen! What exactly are Rare Earth Elements (REEs), and why are they so indispensable to modern technology? Share your insights!
Reference:
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Canada, N. R. (2018, January 23). Rare earth elements facts. https://natural-resources.canada.ca/minerals-mining/mining-data-statistics-analysis/minerals-metals-facts/rare-earth-elements-facts
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Rare Earth Elements. (n.d.). Rare Element Resources. Retrieved July 17, 2025, from https://www.rareelementresources.com/rare-earth-elements/
