Radium

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Radium

Radium (pronounced /ˈreɪdiəm/) is a chemical element with the symbol Ra and atomic number 88. It is the sixth element in group 2 of the periodic table, also known as the alkaline earth metals.

Etymology

The term "Radium" originates from the Latin word 'radius', meaning 'ray'. It was discovered by Marie Curie and Pierre Curie in 1898 and was named due to its intense radioactivity, emitting powerful rays of energy.

Properties and Uses

Radium is a silvery-white metal that does not occur free in nature. It is found in uranium ores and is one of the most radioactive substances. Radium is used in medicine to produce radon gas which is used in cancer treatment. However, its use has declined due to the recognition of the hazards of radiation.

Health Effects

Exposure to radium can have serious health effects such as anemia, cataracts, fractured teeth, cancer (especially bone cancer), and death. It is also considered a potential hazard in the environment due to its radioactivity.

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