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plutonium

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Secondary Information

Definition

Plutonium is a chemical element with the symbol Pu and atomic number 94. It is a silvery-grey metal in the actinide series of the periodic table. It is one of the most toxic heavy metals known and is considered to be a major radiological hazard.

Plutonium was first synthesised in 1940 by Glenn T. Seaborg and his team at the University of California, Berkeley. It was named after Pluto, the Roman god of the underworld.

Plutonium is a very reactive metal. It can react with water to form plutonium dioxide, which is a highly toxic substance. Plutonium can also react with air to form plutonium oxide, which is a fire hazard.

Plutonium is a fissile element, which means that it can be split by neutrons to produce more neutrons. This process can be used to create a nuclear chain reaction, which is the basis of nuclear weapons and nuclear reactors.

Plutonium is also a relatively rare element. It is estimated that there are only about 70 tonnes of plutonium in the world. This makes it a very valuable material, and it is also a major source of nuclear proliferation concerns.

How can the word be used?

Plutonium is a highly radioactive element that is used in nuclear weapons and nuclear power plants.

plutonium

Different forms of the word

Noun:

  • plutonium (a chemical element with the symbol Pu and atomic number 94).
  • plutonium-239 (an isotope of plutonium that is fissile).
  • plutonium-241 (an isotope of plutonium that is used in smoke detectors).

Adjective:

  • plutonium (of or relating to plutonium).
  • plutonium-based (made from plutonium).

Etymology

The word "plutonium" is named after Pluto, the Roman god of the underworld.

The word "plutonium" was first used in English in 1940. It was named by Glenn T. Seaborg, who was one of the scientists who discovered the element.

The root of the word "plutonium" is the Latin word "Pluton", which is the name of the Roman god of the underworld.

So, the word "plutonium" literally means "of or relating to Pluto". This is a reference to the fact that plutonium is a highly radioactive element that is associated with death and destruction.

Question

Where is plutonium used?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Explain what plutonium is and discuss its significance in nuclear science and technology. Describe its use in nuclear reactors and highlight any concerns associated with plutonium, including its potential use in nuclear weapons.

Answer:

Plutonium is a radioactive element with the atomic number 94 and symbol Pu. It holds crucial importance in nuclear science and technology due to its role in nuclear reactors and its potential for nuclear weapons.

Plutonium is primarily produced in nuclear reactors by irradiating uranium fuel. It's a key material in nuclear power generation, where it undergoes controlled fission reactions, releasing energy that is used to generate electricity. Its efficient energy production makes it a valuable resource for meeting energy demands.

However, plutonium also raises concerns. It can be used to create nuclear weapons, and thus its handling and management are heavily regulated to prevent proliferation. Secure storage of plutonium waste is a challenge due to its long radioactive decay period, posing risks to the environment and human health if not properly managed.

Efforts are underway to safely manage plutonium and minimize its potential for misuse. This includes using it as fuel in advanced nuclear reactors that can "burn" plutonium and reduce its stockpiles while generating energy. Proper handling and disposal of plutonium are critical to harnessing its benefits while mitigating its associated risks.