protactinium [Pa]
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Introduction
From the Greek protos meaning first & actinium, element 89. Discovered in 1913 by Kasimir Fajans & OH Gohring; they were studying uranium decay.
Occurrence
- naturally occurring
- short-lived member of the uranium-238 decay series
- isolated in small amounts from uranium ores, such as pitchblende
Characteristics
- shiny silvery metal
- highly radioactive element of relatively short life
- forms actinium upon decay
Uses
no commercial uses