Neodymium (symbol Nd, atomic number 60) is the metal behind the strongest permanent magnets, in motors and headphones. It is classified as a lanthanide and sits in the lanthanide series (f-block), period 6 of the periodic table.
Overview
Neodymium is the chemical element with atomic number 60 and the symbol Nd. With a standard atomic weight of 144.24, it is a lanthanide. In the periodic table it occupies the lanthanide series (f-block) and period 6, and under standard conditions it is normally a solid. Neodymium is the metal behind the strongest permanent magnets, in motors and headphones.
Atomic structure
An atom of Neodymium has 60 protons in its nucleus and, when neutral, 60 electrons arranged in the configuration [Xe] 4f4 6s2. Its standard atomic weight of 144.24 reflects the natural mix of its stable isotopes.
Discovery and place in the table
Neodymium was discovered in 1885 by Carl Auer von Welsbach. It follows Praseodymium (Pr) and precedes Promethium (Pm) in order of atomic number.
| Atomic number | 60 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Nd |
| Atomic mass | 144.24 |
| Category | Lanthanide |
| Group | — |
| Period | 6 |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f4 6s2 |
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Discovered | 1885 (Carl Auer von Welsbach) |