Plutonium

Plutonium is a radioactive metallic element that belongs to the actinide series of elements. It is represented by the chemical symbol Pu and has the atomic number 94. Plutonium was first discovered in 1940 by Glenn T. Seaborg, Edwin M. McMillan, Joseph W. Kennedy, and Arthur Wahl by bombarding uranium with deuterons.

Physical Properties

• Metallic and silvery-white in appearance
• Radioactive
• Highly toxic
• Has six allotropic forms
• Melting point: 640°C
• Boiling point: 3,228°C

Chemical Properties

• Reacts with air, water, and acids
• Forms oxides and hydrides
• Undergoes radioactive decay
• Used in nuclear reactors and nuclear weapons

Uses of Plutonium

Plutonium is primarily used in the production of nuclear power. It is also used in nuclear weapons and has been used as a power source in some spacecraft.

Health and Environmental Impact

Plutonium is highly toxic and poses significant health and environmental risks. It is a carcinogen and can cause radiation sickness if ingested or inhaled. Improper disposal of plutonium can lead to contamination of soil and water, posing long-term hazards to the environment.

Study Guide

1. What is the chemical symbol for plutonium? Pu
2. Who discovered plutonium? Glenn T. Seaborg, Edwin M. McMillan, Joseph W. Kennedy, and Arthur Wahl
3. What are the physical properties of plutonium? Metallic, silvery-white, radioactive, highly toxic, has six allotropic forms
4. What are the primary uses of plutonium? Nuclear power production, nuclear weapons, spacecraft power source
5. What health and environmental risks are associated with plutonium? Highly toxic, carcinogenic, can cause radiation sickness, poses environmental contamination risks

[Plutonium] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Elements and the periodic tableScience • Seventh Grade
• Elements, mixtures and compoundsScience • Fifth Grade