Plutonium is a dense, silvery, radioactive, metallic element. Plutonium is warm to the touch from the heat that is evolved from its radioactivity decay. Plutonium dissolves in mineral acids. The boiling point of plutonium ranges from 3232 degrees celsius to 3460 degrees celsius. The melting point of plutonium is around 641 degree celsius.
Plutonium is used in nuclear weapons and as energy in nuclear reactors.
Plutonium is a highly poisonous element. The radiation that it gives off, in the form of alpha rays, can cause cancer or other serious health problems. The detination of one kilogram of plutonium is equivalent to about 20,000 tons of chemical explosive. Copyright 1997-2001 and Disclaimer for the San Juan Unified School District. All Rights Reserved.