Plutonium
(noun)
A radioactive metallic element of the actinide series, occurring naturally only in trace amounts, with the atomic number 94. It is produced artificially for use as a fuel in nuclear reactors and as a source of weapons-grade material.
Origin:
1940s: from plut(o) + -onium, after the planet pluto.
Examples:
- The use of plutonium in nuclear weapons has been controversial.
- Plutonium is used as a fuel for nuclear reactors.
- The disposal of plutonium waste is a major challenge.
- Plutonium is a very dense element.
- Plutonium is highly toxic and radioactive.