Lanthanides are a group of metallic chemical elements with atomic numbers 57 to 71. They are commonly referred to as rare earth elements and are essential for a broad range of modern technologies, including electronics, clean energy, and defense equipment. Lanthanides are also used in lighting technology, ultraviolet lamps, and glass manufacturing. Other synonyms for this family of elements include rare earth metals, rare earth minerals, lanthanoids, and lanthanide series. Although the term "lanthanides" is widely used in scientific and industrial circles, these synonyms provide additional options for discussing and describing these critical elements.