What is cerium oxide?

Cerium oxide, also known as cerium dioxide or ceria, is a chemical compound composed of the rare earth metal cerium and oxygen. It has the chemical formula CeO2.

Some key facts about cerium oxide include:

  • It is a pale yellow to white solid at room temperature.
  • Cerium oxide is used as a catalyst in various industrial processes, including automotive catalytic converters, fuel cells, and chemical reactions.
  • It is also used in the production of glass, ceramics, and polishing agents due to its high refractive index and abrasive properties.
  • Cerium oxide has been studied for its potential applications in fuel additives, sunscreen formulations, and biomedical materials.

Overall, cerium oxide is a versatile compound with a wide range of applications in industry and technology.