Title: Plutonium Element | Uses, Facts, Physical & Chemical Characteristics
Headings: Plutonium
Plutonium
History and Discovery
Plutonium
Occurrence
Physical Characteristics
Chemical Characteristics
Significance and Uses
Health Hazards
Isotopes of Plutonium
REFERENCES
Other Periodic Table Elements

Content: Plutonium-238 is used in radioisotope heater units and radioisotope thermoelectric generators since it emits large amount of thermal energy making it well suited for devices that do not need direct maintenance for a long time [3]. Artificial heart pacemakers are powered by plutonium (Pu-238). It is also used to generate neutrons for research purposes. Plutonium is used as the power source for space crafts. Health Hazards
Plutonium is radioactive element. It is also a toxic element. It is dangerous to handle since it can accumulate in bone / bone marrow. World is contaminated by plutonium oxide due to the extensive nuclear tests all around the world and some major nuclear accidents in our history. If ingested, only small amount of plutonium will be absorbed by the body but it still can be dangerous. If inhaled, the lungs and liver are prone to diseases like cancer.