Chemistry

How rare earth elements’ hidden properties make modern technology possible

These 17 metals fine-tune light and generate powerful magnetic fields

A photo of China's maglev train as it comes into a station with several people standing at balcony of a nearby platform.

In August, China finished constructing a maglev train line that uses magnets made from rare earth alloys to levitate train cars without consuming electricity.

Xinhua/Alamy Stock Photo

By Nikk Ogasa

In Frank Herbert’s space opera Dune, a precious natural substance called spice melange grants people the ability to navigate vast expanses of the cosmos to build an intergalactic civilization.

In real life here on Earth, a group of natural metals known as the rare earths has made possible our own technology-powered society.