Po214

Po214 is a radioactive isotope of polonium with a mass number of 214 and an atomic number of 84. It is part of the natural decay chains of heavier elements, most notably appearing as a short‑lived intermediate in the uranium-238 and radon-222 decay series. Because of its extremely brief existence, Po-214 is not observed as a free, long‑lived nuclide in the environment.

The decay characteristics of Po-214 are dominated by alpha emission. It has a half-life of about 164.3 microseconds and decays almost exclusively by alpha decay to lead-210 (Pb-210), with the emitted alpha particle carrying roughly 7.7 MeV of energy. The rapid decay means Po-214 is a transient component of the chain, appearing briefly after certain predecessors in the series.

Occurrence and production are tied to radioactive decay processes. In nature, Po-214 arises transiently within the decay sequences of uranium and the radon series, especially as part of the short-lived progeny of radon gas. In laboratory settings, it can be produced as part of controlled decay chains or by specific nuclear reactions, but its very short half-life limits practical uses outside of research contexts.

Safety and handling notes are important: as an alpha emitter, Po-214 poses significant radiotoxic hazards if ingested or inhaled, though external exposure is typically limited due to its short range. Proper radiological controls, containment, and disposal practices are required when working with Po-214. Due to its brief half-life, Po-214 has limited practical applications and is mainly of interest for studies of decay processes and alpha spectroscopy.