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* Nuclear fuel for nuclear power reactors (Pu-239 and Pu-241 are fissile isotopes) * Nuclear weapons

* Power and thermal sources - Pu-238 (for pacemakers, spacecrafts, etc.)

* Neutron source, as Pu-Be

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βˆ™ 12y ago
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βˆ™ 14y ago

Plutonium is highly toxic. A small amount ingested in the human body will result in death. This isn't even because plutonium is radioactive, although it is. Plutonium is a heavy metal, and in general, living tissues are poisoned by heavy metals. Lead, arsenic, Mercury, and thallium are examples of more commonly available poisonous heavy metals.

Human beings do in fact use plutonium for electrical power generation and in nuclear weapons. Plutonium is a byproduct of Uranium fission processes. When a U238 atom absorbs a neutron, it will become U239, which decays by emitting an electron (and an electron antineutrino) to make Neptunium 239, and another beta decay brings it down to Plutonium 239, which has a half-life of 24,360 years.

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βˆ™ 14y ago

- fuel for nuclear reactors

- explosive for nuclear weapons

- neutron source

- isotopic power source

- isotopic heat source

- in the past, power source for pacemakers

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βˆ™ 7mo ago

Plutonium is primarily used for nuclear weapons and nuclear reactors. It is a key material in the production of nuclear energy and is also used in certain types of spacecraft power systems.

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βˆ™ 14y ago

Nuclear bomb in the World War II.

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Q: What is plutonium used for?
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Plutonium can no longer be used as a source of what energy?

Plutonium can no longer be used as a source of energy in nuclear reactors due to its high rate of radioactive decay, which makes it less effective as a fuel. Additionally, the use of plutonium raises safety concerns and proliferation risks, leading to a shift towards alternative nuclear fuel sources.


What are five uses for plutonium?

Plutonium is used as a fuel in nuclear reactors to generate electricity. It is used in the production of nuclear weapons. Plutonium is used in some spacecraft as a power source for radioisotope thermoelectric generators. It can be used in certain types of medical treatments, such as cancer therapy. Plutonium is used in some research and development applications related to nuclear science and technology.


How much did the plutonium device cost for the nuclear bomb?

The cost of the plutonium used in a nuclear bomb can vary greatly, depending on factors such as purity, quantity, and production method. However, estimates suggest that the plutonium used in a typical nuclear bomb could cost millions of dollars.


When were washing machines made with plutonium?

Washing machines have never been made with plutonium, as plutonium is a highly radioactive and hazardous material not suitable for consumer products like washing machines. Plutonium is primarily used in nuclear weapons and reactors due to its high radioactivity and energy-producing capabilities.


Is plutonium used in bombs?

Yes, plutonium is a common material used in the making of nuclear weapons, specifically in fission weapons. Its high radioactivity and capability of undergoing rapid fission reactions make it a suitable material for bomb production.