Lanthanum La

Lanthanum, with a silvery white appearance, is the first element of the lanthanide series. It is incorporated to glasses to produce special optical glasses such as telescope lenses. Large quantities of lanthanum are used to produce rechargeable batteries for hybrid automobiles. For example, a Toyota Prius requires 22-33 lb of lanthanum for its battery. Lanthanum compounds are also used in wastewater treatment and renal failure treatment.