稀土，为什么比黄金还珍贵？

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the significance of rare earth elements in various industries, highlighting their critical role in technology, military applications, and AI development, while also discussing the challenges associated with their extraction and refinement [4][12][17]. Group 1: Importance of Rare Earth Elements - Rare earth elements are essential for modern technology, including smartphones, computers, and electric vehicles, contributing to advancements in performance and efficiency [12][18]. - In military applications, rare earths are crucial for systems such as F-35 fighter jets and submarines, with significant quantities required for their operation [13][14]. - The development of AI heavily relies on chips that utilize rare earth elements, underscoring their importance in the tech industry [22][24]. Group 2: Challenges in Extraction and Refinement - Despite their abundance in the earth's crust, the extraction and refinement of rare earth elements are complex and challenging, leading to their perceived scarcity [24][25]. - Rare earths are often found mixed with other minerals, making mining difficult, and their chemical properties require advanced techniques for separation [28][31]. - The historical context of China's advancements in rare earth extraction technology is highlighted, showcasing the transition from reliance on foreign technology to becoming a leader in the industry [41][47]. Group 3: China's Competitive Advantage - China possesses the richest rare earth resources globally, with both light and heavy rare earths available for industrial and military use [34][35]. - The development of efficient extraction techniques in China, particularly through innovations in the 1960s, has created a competitive edge in the global market [41][49]. - The decline of the rare earth industry in the U.S. due to capital abandonment has led to a reliance on Chinese processing for a significant portion of its rare earth needs [44][47].