GS1 · 10 marks · 150 words

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

Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025

Natural ResourcesIndustry

Syllabus: Distribution of Key Natural Resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent)

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The toppers’ answers

Pakshal SecretryAIR 8 · CSE 2025 · 125 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening

Rare Earth Elements are 17 element

Body

  • 17 of lanthenide group along with Yttrium & Scandium, that are difficult to extract and have 'rare' concentrated deposits.
Diagram
[World map showing distribution of REEs with markers #] # → Distribution of REES

Implication

  1. Supply chain dependence & vulnerability (eg) - Halt of supply during Covid-19
Diagram
[Pie chart: Production] 62% China, Others

  1. Strategic leverage to some countries (eg) Arm twisting of China

  2. Weaponisation of REEs due to geographical concentration (eg) export ban by China (2025)

  3. Conflicts due to REEs (eg) Rusia invasion in Donetsk Region (Ukraine)

  4. Economic vulnerability - Vitamins of modern industry → their supply key for growth.

  5. Leading to social vulnerability,

Close

like resource curse in African nation (eg) exploitation by China

Thus, recent steps like formation of KABIL & joining of MSP (Mineral Security) will ensure supply chain resilience

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