Its radioactive properties were not recognized until 1866, and its potential for use as an energy source was not manifested until the mid-20th century. Now it is used to power nuclear reactors that produce electricity and for isotopes used for medical, industrial, and defense purposes around the world. Physical Properties of Uranium Concentration - uranium ranks 48th among the most abundant elements found in natural crustal rock. Density - uranium is very dense. At about 19 grams per cubic centimeter, it is 1.6 times more dense than lead.
Density increases weight.
For example, while a gallon of milk weighs about 8 pounds, a gallon container of uranium would weigh about 150 pounds. Highly enriched uranium is used in research reactors, naval propulsion reactors, and weapons. Uranium enrichment is a critical step in transforming natural uranium into nuclear fuel to produce energy. Only the uranium-235 isotope is fissionable. The gas is then forced through a series of compressors and converters that contain porous barriers.