Plutonium 239, the incredibly dangerous man-made element, has an half-life/” title=”Cesium-137: What's Its Half-Life?”>incredibly long half-life. And understanding the facts related to this radioactive material can prevent catastrophic consequences. In this article, we’ll go over the basics of the half-life of Plutonium 239, so you can understand how it works and, more importantly, how to stay safe.
Half Life of Plutonium-239:
Plutonium-239 has an incredibly long half life of 24,110 years. It is the most significant isotope of plutonium and can be made from natural uranium.
Primarily used as a fuel in nuclear reactors, it also has significant military applications.
- It is a component of nuclear weapons
- It has been used in the development of nuclear powered torpedoes and missiles
This long-lived isotope is also incredibly dangerous if exposure occurs through inhalation of its aerosols. Its hazard rating is the highest of all the elements in the plutonium family.
- It is a carcinogen, and many studies have documented its cancer-causing effects over the years
- It is toxic to living organisms, and the radiation it emits is hazardous to human health
All in all, plutonium 239 is a radioactive element with a unique half life and a lot of potential applications. With nuclear fission, it can be used for both good and bad, so it’s important to know the facts about it. Knowing how plutonium 239 behaves and how long it lasts can help us make better decisions for our safety and the safety of others.