Actinide: meaning, definitions and examples
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actinide
[ˈæk.tɪ.naɪd ]
Definition
chemical element
Actinides are a series of 15 chemical elements in the periodic table with atomic numbers ranging from 89 to 103. They are typically characterized by their radioactivity and are found in the bottom row of the f-block of the periodic table. The actinide series includes well-known elements such as uranium and thorium, which are used in nuclear energy applications.
Synonyms
actinide series, actinides, f-block elements.
Examples of usage
- Uranium is an actinide used in nuclear reactors.
- The study of actinides is important for understanding radioactive decay.
- Most actinides are synthetic and can only be produced in laboratories.
- Marine sediments contain trace amounts of actinides due to natural processes.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'actinide' comes from 'actinium,' which was discovered first in this group of elements in 1899.
- The ending '-ide' is commonly used in chemistry to denote elements related to a root element, indicating their shared properties.
Science
- These elements are known for their ability to undergo radioactive decay, which means they change into other elements over time.
- Some actinides, like uranium and plutonium, are crucial for producing nuclear energy and are also used in nuclear weapons.
History
- The actinides were first identified in the early 20th century when scientists were exploring the mysteries of radioactivity.
- The discovery of actinides opened new pathways in science, leading to advancements in medicine, energy, and nuclear physics.
Pop Culture
- In movies and books, actinides sometimes represent dangerous substances or advanced technology due to their association with nuclear power.
- Video games often feature fictional versions of actinides as powerful materials needed to craft advanced weaponry or technology.
Environmental Impact
- The mining and use of actinides can lead to environmental concerns, including nuclear waste and contamination.
- Researchers are exploring new ways to safely manage and dispose of waste from actinide use to protect the environment.
Translations
Translations of the word "actinide" in other languages:
🇵🇹 actinídeo
🇮🇳 ऐक्टिनाइड
🇩🇪 Actinoid
🇮🇩 aktinida
🇺🇦 актинід
🇵🇱 aktynid
🇯🇵 アクチニウム
🇫🇷 actinide
🇪🇸 actínido
🇹🇷 aktinid
🇰🇷 악티니움
🇸🇦 أكتينيد
🇨🇿 aktinid
🇸🇰 aktinid
🇨🇳 锕系元素
🇸🇮 aktinid
🇮🇸 aktíníð
🇰🇿 актинид
🇬🇪 აქტინიდი
🇦🇿 aktinid
🇲🇽 actínido