Sc, Y, the lanthanoids and the actinoids

Included in a review of developments in the chemistry of the lanthanoids, reference is made to the similarity between the stability of the M3+ species of the first half of the lanthanoid series and the second half of the actinoids. Environmental studies of La and Nd from an area in Brazil have exploited this similarity to show that there would be little escape of radioactivity after the breach of a radioactive waste repository. In reviewing the chemistry of the actinoids reference is made to several recent important reviews and looks. The study of solutes and their reactions in solution is highlighted as the most interesting area of research during the year for both lanthanoids and actinoids and most of the relevant papers are reviewed here. (U.K.)