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SUVAN SHARMAAIR 148· 2025

Question Q.5GS3GS2

What are Rare Earth Elements (REEs)? Discuss the multi-dimensional implications of uneven distribution of REEs in the world.

Open scan (p.11)

Main Body

Rare Earth Materials Elements [REE] are a set of 17 elements which include Lanthanides & Yttrium & Scandium. REE are not rare because they are found in limited amount they are rare because they are rare most often found in combination of with different elements. Implications of uneven REE distribution

shortages and price fluctuations in markets. (1) dominance of China in REE misused by China. (2) Sino-economic impact on mineral rich nations population because of land grabbing, debt diplomacy etc to Africa. (3) Monopolistic control engages strategic sectors like Power electronics chips (LAI, blockchain) and EVs (Batteries, motherboard) etc (4) Over exploitation by corporate miners are not sustainable.

108 words1 paragraphs

Diagram

Two maps of Africa showing REE distribution across the continent

Topper

SUVAN SHARMA

AIR 1482025

Subject & Paper

GS3GS2

Topic

Natural Resources

Mineral Resources and Global Distribution

Rare Earth Elements

Writing Stats

108

Total words

1

Paragraphs