Uranium
Discovered : by M.H. Klaproth in 1789 at Berlin

Isolated by E.M. Peligot at Paris in 1842

Origin : The element is named after the planet Uranus.

Description :

A radioactive, silvery metal consisting of 99% uranium-238 and 1% uranium-235. This rare form is the one needed for nuclear weapons. To separate the two forms, uranium must be turned into uranium hexafluoride, a volatile liquid. World production of uranium is 35,000 tonnes, with reserves amounting to over 200 years supply.

Image :

Astrological symbol for the planet Uranus. Click here to see larger version of this image.

See also Nuclear Fission Bomb chemsoc timeline entry.



Uranium animation - click the icon above for viewing instructions. QuickTime Player required.

For more about Visual Elements animations click here.