Discovered : 1803 by J.J. Berzelius and W. Hisinger
Isolated in Vestmanland, Sweden
Origin : The element is named after the asteroid Ceres, discovered in 1801.
Description :
A grey metal, more abundant than tin or lead and almost as abundant as zinc. It is little used because it tarnishes easily, reacts with water and burns when heated. A little cerium is employed in alloys, special glass and ceramics, but the best known use is in flints for pocket lighters.
Image :
Asteroid and early star chart. Click here to see larger version of this image.
Cerium animation - click the icon above for viewing instructions. QuickTime Player required.
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