What is Plutonium?

Plutonium is a silvery metal that tarnishes when exposed to air, forming a dull coating. It is a highly radioactive element and is best known for its use in nuclear weapons and reactors. Plutonium is produced in nuclear reactors by the irradiation of uranium-238, and it is used as a fuel in nuclear power plants.

Properties of Plutonium

Plutonium is a dense metal, and it has several different allotropes, or forms, with different crystal structures. It is highly toxic and radioactive, and exposure to plutonium can pose serious health risks. Plutonium is also pyrophoric, meaning it can spontaneously ignite in air.

Uses of Plutonium

Plutonium has both civilian and military applications. It is used as a fuel in nuclear reactors to generate electricity. In the past, it has been used in nuclear weapons, and its radioactive properties make it a potential material for nuclear proliferation. Plutonium-238 is also used in the production of radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) for spacecraft and other specialized applications.

Health and Environmental Risks

Due to its radioactivity, plutonium 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 risks to ecosystems and human health.

Study Questions

1. What is the atomic number of plutonium?
2. Why is plutonium considered a hazardous material?
3. What are the primary uses of plutonium?
4. How does plutonium contribute to the generation of electricity?
5. What are the potential risks associated with the improper disposal of plutonium?

[Plutonium] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

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