The metal burns in air and is the only element that burns in nitrogen. Titanium is resistant to dilute sulfuric and hydrochloric acid, most organic acids, most chlorine gas, and chloride solutions. Natural titanium consists of five isotopes with atomic masses from 46 to 50. All are stable. Eight other unstable isotopes are known.
Natural titanium is reported to become very radioactive after bombardment with deuterons.
The emitted radiations are mostly positrons and hard gamma rays. The metal is dimorphic. The metal combines with oxygen at red heat, and with chlorine at 550C. Titanium is important as an alloying agent with aluminum, molybdenum, manganese, iron, and other metals. Alloys of titanium are principally used for aircraft and missiles where lightweight strength and ability to withstand extremes of temperature are important. Titanium has potential use in desalination plants for converting sea water into fresh water.