Though hydrogen is the most common element in the universe (around 75% of the universe’s mass), it is rare on Earth, making up only 0.14% of the crust.

These objects brought around a half a percent of Earth’s mass. If the late veneer theory is right, then most elements that make up life arrived on Earth sometime after the Earth’s core had formed.

As demand for rare earth elements increases, the United States is strengthening its domestic supply chain. Ana Inés Torres is working to identify economical processes that will minimize ...

The U.S. once controlled the market on rare earth elements, sought after for a range of technologies. But in the last few decades, China has cornered that market and surpassed the U.S.

Ulanqab Ulanhada Volcano No. 5 in Inner Mongolia, China. Extinct volcanoes could contain high concentrations of rare earth elements, essential components for the green transition. Govan Zhang/Getty ...

Scientists still debate the origins of Earth’s life-sustaining elements. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. For many years ...