In chemistry, what collective name is given to the series of elements whose atomic numbers range from 57 to 71, from lanthanum to lutetium?

Introduction / Context:
In periodic table classification, certain blocks of elements are grouped into special series based on their electronic configuration and similar chemical properties. One such important group is the series of elements with atomic numbers from 57 to 71. These elements have many uses in magnets, catalysts, lighting, and electronics, so competitive exams often test whether students can identify their collective name correctly from similar sounding options.

Given Data / Assumptions:
The atomic number range given is from 57 to 71.
This range starts at lanthanum and ends at lutetium in the periodic table.
The question asks for the collective name of elements within this range.
Standard IUPAC style classification of periodic table blocks is assumed.

Concept / Approach:
Elements with atomic numbers 57 to 71 form a series known as the lanthanide or lanthanoid series. They are often called rare earth elements. Their general electronic configuration involves filling of the 4f subshell. They are placed separately at the bottom of the periodic table to keep the main table compact. The actinides form the next series with atomic numbers 89 to 103. Transition elements are a broader group with partial d subshells, and noble gases form the inert group at the far right of the table. Therefore, the option that matches atomic numbers 57 to 71 is lanthanides.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Note that the question specifies elements with atomic numbers between 57 and 71. Step 2: Recall that lanthanum has atomic number 57 and lutetium has atomic number 71. Step 3: Remember that the series from lanthanum to lutetium is collectively called the lanthanide or lanthanoid series. Step 4: Match this information with the options and choose lanthanides.

Verification / Alternative check:
You can cross check by recalling that actinides start from actinium with atomic number 89 and run to lawrencium, so they do not fit the 57 to 71 range. Textbooks usually show two rows below the main periodic table, the upper one labeled lanthanides. If you remember the positioning of lanthanides in diagrams or charts, it confirms that they correspond to atomic numbers 57 to 71.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Actinides correspond to atomic numbers 89 to 103 and involve filling of the 5f subshell, not 57 to 71.
Transition elements include many metals in the central block of the periodic table with partially filled d subshells, not specifically 57 to 71 only.
Noble gases are the unreactive elements like helium, neon, and argon at the extreme right of the periodic table and do not match this atomic number range.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse lanthanides with actinides because both are shown in separate rows and have similar sounding names. Others may think that any central block element is a transition element and forget that this question asks for a very specific atomic number range. Carefully reading the numbers and associating them with the correct named series avoids these mistakes.

Final Answer:
The elements with atomic numbers from 57 to 71 are called Lanthanides.