Chemistry class 12th Applications_of_d_and_f_Block_Elements

Applications of d- and f-Block Elements


Applications of d-Block Elements (Transition Metals)

1. Catalysts: Transition metals like Fe, Pt, Ni, and V are used in industrial processes like the Haber
process (Fe) and hydrogenation reactions (Ni, Pt).
2. Alloys: Steel (Fe-C), stainless steel (Fe-Cr-Ni), and brass (Cu-Zn) are widely used in construction
and machinery.
3. Electrical Conductors: Copper (Cu) and silver (Ag) are used in electrical wiring and electronics.
4. Jewelry and Coinage: Gold (Au), silver (Ag), and platinum (Pt) are used due to their luster and
corrosion resistance.
5. Biomedical Uses: Titanium (Ti) is used for implants and surgical instruments.
6. Pigments and Dyes: Chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), and manganese (Mn) compounds are used in
paints and ceramics.
7. Batteries: Nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) and lithium-ion batteries (Co-based) use transition metals.


Applications of f-Block Elements (Lanthanides and Actinides)

1. Nuclear Energy: Uranium (U) and plutonium (Pu) are used as fuel in nuclear reactors and
weapons.
2. Magnets: Neodymium (Nd) is used in strong permanent magnets for electric motors and
headphones.
3. Glass and Ceramics: Lanthanides like cerium (Ce) are used in glass polishing and UV filters.
4. Phosphors in Screens and LEDs: Europium (Eu) and terbium (Tb) are used in fluorescent lamps
and LED screens.
5. Superconductors: Some lanthanides contribute to advanced superconducting materials.
6. Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy: Gadolinium (Gd) is used in MRI contrast agents, and
actinides like radium (Ra) in radiation therapy.