Difference between Lanthanides and Actinides
Lanthanides and actinides are two distinct series of elements in the periodic table, both classified as f-block elements (inner transition metals). Differences between Lanthanides and Actinides are given in the table below:
| Feature | Lanthanides | Actinides |
|---|---|---|
| Occurrence | Naturally occurring | Many are synthetic or man-made |
| Atomic Numbers | 57 (Lanthanum) to 71 (Lutetium) | 89 (Actinium) to 103 (Lawrencium) |
| Radioactivity | Mostly non-radioactive | All are radioactive |
| Electron Filling | 4f orbitals | 5f orbitals |
| General Electronic Configuration | [Xe]6s24f1−14 | [Rn]7s25f1−14 |
| Common Oxidation States | Primarily +3 | +3 and higher oxidation states |
| Reactivity | Less reactive than actinides | More reactive, especially when finely divided |
| Complex Formation | Less tendency to form complexes | Easily form complexes |
| Density | Generally lower density | Generally higher density |
