ChemistryCLASS 10CBSE
answered 28 May 2026What is the composition of misch metal?
A.VERIFIED ANSWERfact-checked by tutors
Misch metal is an alloy of rare earth elements (lanthanides), primarily used in lighter flints and the steel industry.
Composition:
| Component | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Cerium (Ce) | ~50% |
| Lanthanum (La) | ~25% |
| Neodymium (Nd) | ~15% |
| Other lanthanides + Iron | ~10% |
- Name comes from German Mischmetall ("mixed metal").
- It is pyrophoric sparks when struck, used in cigarette lighter flints.
- Added to steel to improve high-temperature strength.
Misch metal is a lanthanide alloy composed mainly of cerium (~50%) and lanthanum (~25%), known for its spark-producing pyrophoric property.