plutoniumatoom

The term "plutoniumatoom" refers to an atom of the chemical element plutonium. Plutonium is a transuranic radioactive metal with the symbol Pu and atomic number 94. It is a dense, silvery-white, actinide metal that tarnishes when exposed to air, forming a dull grey oxide coating. Plutonium is chemically reactive and exists in several allotropic forms. It is pyrophoric, meaning it can ignite spontaneously in air.

Plutonium is not found in significant quantities in nature and is primarily produced artificially in nuclear reactors through the neutron bombardment of uranium. The most common isotope, plutonium-239, is a key component in nuclear weapons and a fuel in some nuclear reactors. Other isotopes of plutonium are also produced, each with different radioactive properties and half-lives.

The radioactivity of plutonium is a significant characteristic. It emits alpha particles, which have a short range and can be stopped by a sheet of paper or the outer layer of skin. However, if ingested or inhaled, plutonium can be very dangerous due to its alpha emission and long biological half-life. It tends to accumulate in bones and the liver. Its decay also produces heat, which can be utilized in radioisotope thermoelectric generators for space missions. Due to its radioactivity and toxicity, handling plutonium requires strict safety precautions.