What is Plutonium?

Plutonium is a dense, silvery-white metal that tarnishes in air. It is highly radioactive and can exist in several different forms, or isotopes. The most common isotope of plutonium is plutonium-239, which is used as a fuel in nuclear reactors and in nuclear weapons.

Discovery and Production

Plutonium was first discovered in 1940 by scientists at the University of California, Berkeley. It was produced by bombarding uranium with deuterons in a cyclotron, creating plutonium-238. Plutonium-239, the isotope used in nuclear reactors and weapons, is produced by bombarding uranium-238 with neutrons in a nuclear reactor.

Uses of Plutonium

Plutonium has several important uses, including as a fuel for nuclear reactors, in the production of nuclear weapons, and in the creation of certain types of batteries, such as those used in pacemakers and spacecraft.

Health and Environmental Concerns

Due to its radioactive properties, plutonium poses significant health and environmental risks. Exposure to plutonium can lead to radiation sickness, an increased risk of cancer, and other health problems. Improper disposal of plutonium-containing materials can also lead to environmental contamination.

Fun Facts

• Plutonium is named after the planet Pluto.
• Plutonium-238 is used to power spacecraft, such as the Mars rover missions.
• The half-life of plutonium-239 is about 24,100 years.

As with all radioactive materials, proper handling and disposal of plutonium are crucial to minimize its potential risks to human health and the environment.