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promethium

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Promethium is a lanthanide element, which means that it is chemically similar to the element lanthanum. It is the 61st element on the periodic table, and it has only one stable isotope, promethium-147. All of its other isotopes are radioactive and have short half-lives.

Promethium is a silvery-white metal that is very soft and has a low melting point. It is also very reactive and can combine with other elements to form compounds.

Promethium is used in a variety of applications, including:

  • Light bulbs: Promethium is used in some light bulbs because it emits bright blue-green light.
  • Smoke detectors: Promethium is used in some smoke detectors to create a small amount of radiation that is detected by a sensor when smoke enters the detector.
  • Medical devices: Promethium is used in some medical devices, such as pacemakers and heart valves, to provide a source of power.
  • Research: Promethium is used in research to study the effects of radiation on living things.

Promethium is a valuable element with a variety of applications. However, it is also a radioactive element, which means that it must be handled with care.

How can the word be used?

Promethium is a rare-earth element.

promethium

Different forms of the word

Noun: a radioactive chemical element with the symbol Pm and atomic number 61.

Adjective: relating to promethium.

Etymology

The word "promethium" is derived from the name of the Greek god Prometheus, who stole fire from Zeus and gave it to humans.

The first recorded use of the word "promethium" was in 1945.

Question

What is promethium used for?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Define promethium and discuss its significance as an element. Explain its applications and potential challenges due to its scarcity and radioactivity.

Answer:

Promethium is a chemical element with the atomic number 61 and the symbol Pm. It is a rare earth element and holds importance due to its unique properties and applications.

Promethium has limited applications due to its scarcity and radioactivity. It has been used in certain types of luminous paints and signs, as well as in atomic batteries for powering devices like pacemakers. These batteries utilise the element's radioactive decay to generate electricity.

However, the challenges associated with promethium stem from its scarcity and radioactive nature. Its scarcity makes it difficult and costly to obtain, limiting its widespread use. Additionally, its radioactivity presents health hazards and requires careful handling and disposal.

Promethium's role in practical applications highlights its potential benefits and challenges. As technologies evolve and our understanding of materials deepens, finding ways to harness their properties while addressing their limitations will be crucial.