polonium [Po]
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Introduction
Named for Poland, the native country of Marie Curie. Discovered by Marie Curie & Pierre Curris in 1898 while studying pitchblende.
Occurrence
- obtained mainly from radioactive decay of uranium & thorium
- pitchblende & radium-lead residues
Characteristics
- silvery, radioactive metallic element
- similar chemically to tellurium & bismuth
- disintegrates emitting a helium nucleus to form an isotope of lead; also emits neutrons & alpha-radiation
- volatile: about 1/2 of a sample will evaporate in 2 days at 55 degress C
- dissolves readily in dilute acids
- only slightly soluble in alkali
- extremely radioactive & toxic
Uses
- nuclear batteries
- antistatic agents
- film cleaners
- source of neutrons & alpha-radiation
- lightweight heat supply for space satellites