| Formula / Notation | La |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 7439-91-0 |
| Molecular Weight | 138.91 |
| Melting Point | 920.0 |
| Boiling Point | 3464.0 |
| Density | 6.14 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water (reacts slowly) |
| Appearance | Soft, silvery-white metal, tarnishes in air |
| Also Known As | La, lanthanum metal |
| Category | Elements |
What is Lanthanum?
Lanthanum is a soft, silvery-white rare earth metal, atomic number 57, and the first element of the lanthanide series. Highly reactive - tarnishes in air and reacts with water. La2O3 is used in high-refractive-index optical glasses.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: Lanthanum
Other Names / Synonyms: La, lanthanum metal
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 920.0 |
| Boiling Point | 3464.0 |
| Density | 6.14 |
| Molecular Weight | 138.91 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water (reacts slowly) |
| Appearance | Soft, silvery-white metal, tarnishes in air |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Lanthanum is a soft, silvery-white rare earth metal, atomic number 57, and the first element of the lanthanide series. Highly reactive - tarnishes in air and reacts with water. La2O3 is used in high-refractive-index optical glasses.
Optical glass (La2O3 for high-refractive-index lenses and camera optics). NiMH battery negative electrode (La-Ni5 alloy). FCC catalysts in petroleum refining. Lanthanum carbonate for treating hyperphosphatemia. Lighter flints (misch metal contains La).
Lanthanum metal and compounds: mildly toxic. Irritant to skin, eyes, respiratory tract. Lanthanum dust combustible. Soluble La compounds: moderate toxicity if ingested. Handle with standard precautions. Limited occupational exposure data.
The formula or notation for Lanthanum is: La