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Converters & Calculators
Thorium: Element Properties And Uses
Description
Thorium (Th) is a radioactive, silvery‐white metal with the atomic number 90. It occurs more frequently than uranium and is used as nuclear fuel, particularly in thorium reactors. Thorium is less toxic and offers potential for improved nuclear energy production safety.
Introduction to the Element
Thorium is a naturally occurring radioactive chemical element with the symbol Th and the atomic number 90. As a member of the actinide series, thorium occurs in various minerals in the Earth’s crust, including monazite and thorite.
The element was discovered in the early 19/01/1800s and has since been subject to investigation by scientists and industry experts given its applications in nuclear energy and advanced materials research. Its occurrence relative to uranium renders thorium a viable candidate in nuclear fuel cycles and other specialised applications.
Description of Chemical Properties
Thorium exhibits specific chemical properties that set it apart from many other elements. In its metallic state, thorium appears as a silvery metal. It oxidises gradually when exposed to air, forming a layer of thorium dioxide. This oxide layer influences its reactivity and stability in various environments. Typically, thorium occurs in the +4 oxidation state and forms compounds such as thorium oxide, thorium fluoride and thorium chloride.
In oxygen-rich environments, thorium reacts to form a dense, inert oxide that withstands high temperatures. In acidic solutions, thorium compounds dissolve, thereby permitting additional chemical processing during industrial refinement.
Physical Properties Data Table
|
Property |
Value |
|
Atomic number |
90 |
|
Atomic mass |
232.0381 u |
|
Density |
11.7 g/cm³ |
|
Melting point |
1750°C |
|
Boiling point |
4788°C |
|
Crystal structure |
Hexagonally close-packed |
For further information please visit Stanford Advanced Materials (SAM).
Common Applications
A primary application of thorium is in nuclear energy. In certain reactor concepts, thorium is employed as a fertile material that converts into fissile isotopes. This conversion permits nuclear power generation with enhanced safety measures compared to conventional uranium-based reactors.
In addition to its role in nuclear energy, thorium is utilised in the manufacture of gas mantles for portable lighting, where its incandescence improves the light output. Furthermore, the element is used in high‐temperature alloys and specialised ceramics that benefit from thorium’s resistance to heat and corrosion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is thorium and where is it found?
Thorium is a naturally occurring radioactive element found in mineral ores such as monazite and thorite in the Earth’s crust.
How does thorium contribute to nuclear energy?
Thorium is used as a fertile material in nuclear reactors. It converts into fissile isotopes, thereby permitting an alternative method of nuclear power generation that is regarded as safer than conventional approaches.
What are the principal chemical properties of thorium?
Thorium typically exhibits a +4 oxidation state. It forms stable oxides and reacts with acids and halogens under defined conditions.
What are the principal physical properties of thorium?
Thorium is a dense metal with high melting and boiling points. It crystallises in a hexagonally close-packed structure, as detailed in the data table of physical properties.
What is the significance of the refining methods and industrial products of thorium?
The extraction of thorium requires specialised chemical procedures, and the resulting high-purity thorium is required for the manufacture of advanced materials in the energy and aerospace sectors.
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