Plutonium-239

Definition

Plutonium-239 is a radioactive isotope of the element plutonium. It is a key fissile material used in the production of nuclear weapons and as fuel in some nuclear reactors. Plutonium-239 is central to the topics of nuclear fission and fusion, as it is a primary component in the process of nuclear fission.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Plutonium-239 has a half-life of approximately 24,100 years, meaning it takes that long for half of the radioactive atoms to decay.
2. Plutonium-239 is produced in nuclear reactors when uranium-238 absorbs a neutron and undergoes a series of radioactive decays.
3. Plutonium-239 is a fissile material, meaning its nucleus can be easily split by low-energy neutrons, releasing a large amount of energy in the process.
4. The fission of plutonium-239 is the primary reaction used in the core of nuclear weapons, as well as in some nuclear power reactors.
5. Plutonium-239 is highly toxic and poses significant health risks if inhaled or ingested, as it can accumulate in the body and emit harmful radiation.

Review Questions

• Explain the role of plutonium-239 in the process of nuclear fission.
  • Plutonium-239 is a key fissile material used in nuclear fission reactions. When a neutron collides with a plutonium-239 nucleus, the nucleus can split, or fission, releasing a large amount of energy and additional neutrons. These released neutrons can then go on to split other plutonium-239 nuclei, creating a self-sustaining chain reaction that is the basis for nuclear power generation and nuclear weapons.
• Describe how plutonium-239 is produced and the significance of its half-life.
  • Plutonium-239 is produced in nuclear reactors when uranium-238 absorbs a neutron and undergoes a series of radioactive decays. The resulting plutonium-239 has a half-life of approximately 24,100 years, meaning it takes that long for half of the radioactive atoms to decay. This long half-life is significant because it allows plutonium-239 to be used as a fuel in nuclear reactors and as a component in nuclear weapons, as the material remains radioactive for an extended period.
• Analyze the health and environmental concerns associated with the use of plutonium-239.
  • Plutonium-239 is highly toxic and poses significant health risks if inhaled or ingested, as it can accumulate in the body and emit harmful radiation. Exposure to plutonium-239 can lead to increased risk of cancer and other health problems. Additionally, the long half-life of plutonium-239 means that any environmental contamination can persist for thousands of years, posing a threat to the ecosystem and human populations. The proper handling, storage, and disposal of plutonium-239 is critical to mitigate these health and environmental concerns associated with its use in nuclear applications.

Related terms

Nuclear Fission:

Nuclear fission is the process of splitting heavy atomic nuclei, such as uranium or plutonium, to release energy and produce lighter nuclei.

Nuclear Fusion:

Nuclear fusion is the process of combining lighter atomic nuclei, such as hydrogen, to form heavier nuclei and release large amounts of energy in the process.

Radioactivity: Radioactivity is the spontaneous emission of radiation, such as alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays, from the nucleus of an unstable atom.