 It is somewhat difficult to separate ytterbium from other lanthanides due to its similar properties . As a result , the process is somewhat long . First , minerals such as monazite or xenotime are dissolved into various acids , such as sulfuric acid . Ytterbium can then be separated from other lanthanides by ion exchange , as can other lanthanides . The solution is then applied to a resin , which different lanthanides bond to in different matters . This is then dissolved using complexing agents , and due to the different types of bonding exhibited by the different lanthanides , it is possible to isolate the compounds . 
