Question

What is Misch metal ? Give its composition and uses.

Answer 1

Mischmetal is an alloy of rare earth elements with iron and traces of $S,C,Ca$ and $Al$. The composition is 50% cerium and 25% lanthanum, with small amounts of neodymium and praseodymium. It improves workability of steel. It is used in the ferrocerium "flint" ignition device of many lighters and torches.
It is also used in the preparation of rare earth elements.