Californium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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californium
[หkรฆlษชหfษหr.ni.ษm ]
Definition
chemical element
Californium is a synthetic element with the symbol Cf and atomic number 98. It belongs to the actinide series and is used in various applications, including medicine and nuclear reactors. Californium is notable for being one of the few elements that can be produced in sufficient quantities and has isotopes used for neutron sources.
Synonyms
Cf, actinide, radioactive element.
Examples of usage
- Californium is used in neutron radiography.
- The radioactive properties of californium assist in cancer treatment.
- Researchers are studying californium for potential use in nuclear reactors.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Californium was first produced in 1950 by a team of scientists, including Albert Ghiorso, Glenn T. Seaborg, and Emilio Segrรจ.
- The element was created by bombarding curium with neutrons in a nuclear reactor, marking a significant advancement in chemistry.
Applications
- It is used in neutron moisture gauges to measure water content in soil, which is crucial for agriculture.
- Californium has applications in nuclear reactors and in the treatment of certain types of cancer, showcasing its importance in medicine.
Pop Culture
- Californium has appeared in various sci-fi movies and games, often depicted as a powerful source of energy.
- References to 'Cf' can be found in comic books and anime, usually relating to its radioactive properties.
Science and Safety
- Due to its radioactivity, californium must be handled with extreme care, using protective shielding and special equipment.
- It is one of the few elements that are chemically and physically manipulated by scientists for research, emphasizing its unique nature.
Origin of 'californium'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'californium' comes from California, where the element was discovered at the University of California, Berkeley.
- It is denoted by the symbol 'Cf' and has an atomic number of 98, representing its place in the periodic table.
Californium was first synthesized in 1950 at the University of California, Berkeley, by a team of researchers including Glenn T. Seaborg, Albert Ghiorso, and Emilio Segrรจ. The element was named after the state of California, reflecting its place of discovery. Initially produced by bombarding curium with alpha particles, californium was one of the later actinides to be discovered, highlighting the advancements in nuclear chemistry made during the mid-20th century. Over time, it has found applications in various fields including nuclear medicine, where it is utilized in cancer treatment and in neutron sources for nuclear reactors. Its rarity and the complexity of its production make californium one of the most expensive materials on Earth.