Th230

Thorium-230, represented by the symbol Th-230, is a naturally occurring radioactive isotope of thorium. It is a key member of the uranium-238 decay chain, originating from the decay of uranium-234. Thorium-230 itself decays via alpha emission into radium-226. This decay process has a very long half-life, approximately 75,380 years, making it a relatively stable isotope in the context of radioactive decay.

The abundance of Th-230 is found in various natural environments. It is present in uranium ores and can accumulate in sediments and soils, particularly those with a high concentration of uranium. Its presence in geological formations has made it a valuable tool in radiometric dating, specifically in dating marine sediments and speleothems (like stalactites and stalagmites). By measuring the ratio of Th-230 to its parent isotope, or to other isotopes in its decay series, scientists can determine the age of these formations.

Industrially, thorium is sometimes extracted from monazite sands, which can contain Th-230. While thorium has been explored for use in nuclear reactors, Th-230 itself is not typically used as a primary fuel source due to its long half-life and decay properties. Its significance lies mainly in its role within natural decay chains and its application in geochronology.