Wikijunior:The Elements/Neptunium

Shows the position of Neptunium on the periodic table.

Neptunium's symbol on the Periodic Table

Neptunium is an element with a atomic number of 93 and a symbol "Np". Also, neptunium has a atomic weight of 237u and it stands between plutonium and uranium.

What does it look, feel, taste, or smell like?

Neptunium is a hard, ductile and radioactive metal. It has a silver colour which replenishes when it exposes to air.

Where did its name come from

Neptunium was named after the planet Neptune.

How was it discovered?

Neptunium was first found in 1934 by an Italian scientist Enrico Fermi. Fermi said you could create neptunium by bombarding uranium using neutron which cause the uranium to be unstable and then split in to two elements, one is neptunium.

What are it uses?

Neptunium is fissionable, which can be use to create weapons such as nuclear bombs. But neptunium still need more studies to maximize it uses.

Is it dangerous?

Neptunium is incredibly dangerous actinide metal to contact due to it radioactive property.

Facts

Density: 11.48 ounces per cubic inch (19.86 grams per cubic cm).
Phase at room temperature: solid.
Melting point: 1,191 degrees Fahrenheit (644 degrees Celsius).
Boiling point: 7,052 F (3,900 C).
Most common isotope: Np-237.