key term - Plutonium

Definition

Plutonium is a radioactive, silvery-gray metal that is used primarily as a fuel in nuclear reactors and as an essential material in the production of nuclear weapons. Its discovery and subsequent applications have made it a crucial element in the development of advanced scientific research, particularly in national laboratories focused on nuclear energy and defense.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Plutonium was first produced in 1940 by scientists at the University of California, Berkeley, as part of research related to the Manhattan Project.
2. It has several isotopes, with plutonium-239 being the most significant for its use in nuclear weapons and as reactor fuel due to its ability to sustain a chain reaction.
3. The production of plutonium involves the irradiation of uranium-238 in nuclear reactors, where it absorbs neutrons and undergoes a series of decay processes to transform into plutonium.
4. Los Alamos National Laboratory has been central to plutonium research, including its handling, storage, and use in various applications ranging from energy generation to weaponry.
5. The handling of plutonium poses significant safety and environmental challenges due to its toxicity and long half-life, necessitating strict protocols for its management.

Review Questions

• How did the discovery of plutonium influence scientific research at national laboratories?
  • The discovery of plutonium marked a turning point in scientific research, particularly at national laboratories like Los Alamos. Its unique properties allowed for advancements in both nuclear energy and weaponry, leading to a shift in how scientists approached atomic research. Plutonium enabled the development of more efficient nuclear reactors and contributed significantly to the design and production of nuclear weapons, thereby changing the landscape of military strategy and energy production.
• Discuss the role of Los Alamos National Laboratory in the development and application of plutonium.
  • Los Alamos National Laboratory played a pivotal role in both the initial discovery and ongoing research related to plutonium. The lab was instrumental during World War II when it developed methods for producing plutonium for atomic bombs. Since then, Los Alamos has continued to lead research efforts in refining plutonium use for energy applications and ensuring safe management practices, reflecting its lasting impact on both military and civilian nuclear programs.
• Evaluate the environmental and safety challenges associated with plutonium handling at national laboratories.
  • Handling plutonium presents numerous environmental and safety challenges that must be carefully evaluated. Due to its long half-life and high toxicity, improper management can lead to contamination of environments surrounding national laboratories. Strict protocols are essential to prevent accidents or leaks that could pose health risks to workers and nearby communities. Continuous advancements in safety measures and waste management strategies are necessary to mitigate these risks while harnessing plutonium's benefits for energy and defense.

Related terms

Uranium: A naturally occurring radioactive element that is the primary fuel for nuclear reactors and is also used in the production of nuclear weapons.

Los Alamos National Laboratory:

A prominent research facility in New Mexico that played a key role in the development of the atomic bomb during World War II and continues to be a leader in nuclear research.

Nuclear fission: The process of splitting the nucleus of an atom into smaller parts, releasing a significant amount of energy, which is the fundamental reaction used in nuclear reactors and bombs.