Deuterium oxide

Deuterium Oxide

Deuterium oxide, also known as heavy water (pronunciation: /ˈdjuːtəriəm ˈɒksaɪd/), is a form of water that contains a larger than normal amount of the hydrogen isotope deuterium, also known as "heavy hydrogen", which makes the water "heavier".

Etymology

The term "deuterium" comes from the Greek word "deuteros", meaning "second", to denote the two particles composing the nucleus. "Oxide" is derived from the fact that it is a compound of oxygen and another element.

Properties

Deuterium oxide is chemically the same as normal water, but with a higher density and boiling point due to the presence of deuterium. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, but significantly heavier than ordinary water.

Uses

Deuterium oxide is used in nuclear reactors as a neutron moderator and coolant. It is also used in the production of deuterium and tritium gases, and in certain types of scientific research.

Related Terms

• Hydrogen
• Oxygen
• Water
• Nuclear reactor
• Neutron moderator
• Coolant
• Deuterium
• Tritium

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Deuterium oxide
• Wikipedia's article - Deuterium oxide

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