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There are numerous isotopes of both plutonium and uranium ( all radioactive) thus it is not easy to say which element is more radioactive. However the half lives of the most active isotpe of each compound is follows
241Pu has a half life of 14 years
232U has a half life of 68.9 years
So in terms of activity, Plutonium is more radioactive; however uranium stays radioactive for a longer time.
The specific activity of plutonium is greater than the specific activity of uranium (comparison between 239Pu and 238U).
Plutonium is generally more radioactive than uranium because of the specific isotopes produced during the decay process. Plutonium-239, for example, has a shorter half-life and emits more energetic radiation compared to most isotopes of uranium.
The specific activity is different for each isotope and U and Pu have many isotopes.
But:
- the most common isotope of uranium (238U) has a specific activity of 3,3.10-7 Ci/g
- the most common isotope of plutonium (239Pu) has a specific activity of
6,2.10-2 Ci/g
Compared, plutonium is more radioactive.
Plutonium is more dangerous: the specific activity is greater, the critical mass is smaller, the chemical toxicity is greater.
Plutonium releases more energy in a nuclear reaction then uranium.
If you think to critical mass, plutonium has a critical mass smaller than the critical mass of uranium.
Also plutonium is more toxic and dangerous.
No idea, im not a nerd. (jk Just Kidding)
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Is plutonium the result of of the alpha decay of uranium?
Yes, plutonium is typically formed as a result of the alpha decay of uranium in nuclear reactors or in nuclear weapons. It can also be produced artificially in nuclear reactors by bombarding uranium-238 with neutrons.
Which radioactive element is used in nuclear reactors?
Uranium, specifically Uranium-235, is the primary radioactive element used in nuclear reactors. It undergoes controlled fission reactions to generate heat and produce energy.
Where does uranium and plutonium come from?
Uranium and plutonium are naturally occurring elements found in the Earth's crust. They are formed through processes like nuclear decay of other radioactive elements or through supernova explosions. Both uranium and plutonium are used as fuel in nuclear reactors and in the production of nuclear weapons.
Is plutonium more powerful than uranium?
Yes, plutonium is generally considered to be more powerful than uranium because it is a more efficient fuel for nuclear reactors and can sustain nuclear chain reactions more easily. Additionally, certain isotopes of plutonium are used in nuclear weapons due to their high explosive potential.
Are fuel rods highly radioactive?
Yes, fuel rods used in nuclear reactors are highly radioactive when they are in use. They contain radioactive isotopes such as uranium and plutonium, which emit harmful radiation. Proper handling and disposal are necessary to prevent exposure to these radioactive materials.
What substance is 900 times more radioactive as pure uranium?
Plutonium is approximately 900 times more radioactive than pure uranium. Plutonium is a radioactive element that is found in trace amounts in uranium ores, and it is used in nuclear reactors and weapons due to its high radioactivity.
Which element is more radioactive than uranium?
Polonium is more radioactive than uranium. It emits alpha particles and has a very short half-life, making it more radioactive than uranium.
Does plutonium have isotopes that are all radioactive?
All the uranium isotopes are radioactive.
What is a naturally occurring element that is radioactive?
Uranium and Plutonium
What is more radioactive than pure uranium?
Many radioactive isotopes are more radioactive than the naturally occurring uranium isotopes:All fission product isotopes are more radioactive (e.g. iodine-131, strontium-90)Most radioactive isotopes in the uranium --> lead decay chain are more radioactive (e.g. radium, radon, polonium)Plutonium is more radioactiveTritium is more radioactiveCarbon-14 is more radioactiveArtificially produced uranium isotopes are more radioactive (e.g. uranium-233, uranium-236)etc.
What 2 radioactive elements were chosen for the atomic bomb?
Uranium-235 and plutonium-239 were the two radioactive elements chosen for the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Are uranium plutonium and hydrogen dangerous?
1. Uranium is a possible polluting agent of the natural environment. 2. Uranium is a toxic and a radioactive chemical element. 3. Uranium release radium and radon. 4. Radioactive wastes are dangerous and need to be isolated. Plutonium: the same characteristics, but it is more toxic and radioactive. Hydrogen: it is a cause of severe explosions.
Which element is most radioactive plutonium uranium or cerium?
All the isotopes of uranium and plutonium are radioactive; plutonium isotopes have a greater specific activity. For cerium: the isotopes 136Ce and 142Ce are possible to be radioactive but having very long half lives and a not significative radioactivity.
Can anyone give you an example of a radioactive substance?
H3, Deuterium is radioactive. Uranium and plutonium are radioactive and are used in atomic bombs.
Which material type is more dangerous plutonium 239 or uranium 235?
Plutonium-239 is generally considered more dangerous than uranium-235 because it is highly toxic and poses a greater risk of radiation exposure. Plutonium-239 is a significant nuclear proliferation concern due to its use in nuclear weapons.
What is the element at the head of an artificial radioactive decay series?
Enriched Uranium and following it is Plutonium
Are plutonium uranium and thorium controlled chemicals?
All radioactive materials are controlled by severe rules.
