Ce2O3

Ce2O3, also known as ceria, is a chemical compound composed of cerium and oxygen. Its molecular formula indicates a stoichiometric ratio of cerium oxide, with a cerium content of 74.86% and an oxygen content of 25.14%. This compound is an integral part of the larger class of cerium oxides.

Ceria exhibits a hexagonal crystal structure, and its molecular weight is approximately 192.08 g/mol. This compound has a number of unique properties, including high thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, and optical reflectance. The material is highly sensitive to light, exhibiting a strong absorption at wavelengths between 460 and 500 nanometers.

In addition to its physical properties, Ce2O3 also exhibits a range of chemical properties. It reacts readily with acids to produce a clear blue solution of cerium nitrate and hydrogen gas, which is a notable chemical characteristic of cerium compounds. The compound is also highly reactive with halogens and alcoholic compounds, resulting in the formation of new cerium-based compounds.

Ce2O3 has a range of practical applications, primarily in the fields of catalysis, sensors, and optics. Its unique properties make it useful in applications such as high-performance fuel cells, thermoelectric materials, and solid-state lasers. Research has also explored the material's potential in fields like biomedical imaging and radiation detection due to its exceptional sensitivity to ionizing radiation. As a result, the study of Ce2O3 and its properties continues to be a dynamic and relevant area of investigation.