Thorium (Th)
| Atomic Number | 90 |
|---|---|
| Atomic Mass | 232.03774 u |
| Category | Actinide |
| Electron Config | [Rn] 6d² 7s² |
| Appearance | silvery, often with black tarnish |
| Density (STP) | 11724 g/L |
| Melting Point | 2023 K |
| Boiling Point | 5061 K |
| Electronegativity | 1.3 (Pauling) |
| Ionization Energy | 587 kJ/mol |
| Atomic Radius | 180 pm |
| Crystal Structure | Face-centered Cubic |
| Discovered By | Jöns Jakob Berzelius (1829) |
Brief Introduction
Thorium (Th) is a weakly radioactive, silvery-white metallic element that is relatively abundant in Earth's crust. It is the most abundant naturally occurring actinide. Key details about Thorium (Th) are as follows:
Uses: Primarily researched as a potential nuclear fuel in thorium reactors (safer than uranium, produces less long-lived waste). Historically used in gas mantles for lanterns (thorium dioxide), tungsten alloys, and as a catalyst.
Production/Extraction: Extracted from monazite and thorite ores. Major producers include Australia, India, and the United States. More abundant than uranium in Earth's crust.
History: Discovered in 1828 by Jöns Jakob Berzelius in Sweden. Named after Thor, the Norse god of thunder.
Health Effects & Safety: Radioactive but less hazardous than many other actinides due to long half-life. Inhalation of thorium dust can cause lung damage and cancer. Requires proper handling and disposal.
Price/Market: Not widely traded commercially. Price depends on purity and nuclear industry demand. Potential future value if thorium reactors become widespread.
Properties: Radioactive with very long half-life (14 billion years for Th-232), silvery metallic appearance, relatively soft and ductile, oxidizes slowly in air, melting point around 1750°C.