Rare Earth Metals
Rare Earth Metals are a group of 17 elements that exhibit similar chemical and physical properties. These metals are crucial in the development and production of various technologies used in space and astronautical engineering, including electric motors, batteries, lasers, and superconductors. Due to their unique properties, they are also used in the manufacturing of spacecraft components such as guidance systems, structural materials, and thermal protection systems. Despite their name, rare earth metals are not actually rare, but they are difficult to extract and refine from the earth's crust. China is the largest producer of rare earth metals, accounting for over 80% of the world's supply. The extraction and processing of rare earth metals can have significant environmental impacts, including water pollution and radioactive waste.
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