Question

Write any two uses of actinides.

Mention some of the important uses of actinoids.

Discuss the important uses of actinoids.

Answer 1

1. The half-lives of natural thorium and uranium isotopes are so long that we get very negligible radiation from these elements. So, we find them in everyday use.
2. Th(IV) oxide, ThO₂ with 1% CeO₂, was used as a major source of indoor lighting before incandescent lamps came into existence, only because these oxides convert heat energy from burning natural gas to intense light. Even today, there is a great demand for these lights for outdoor camping.

Answer 2

Actinoids, both in their pure state and as compounds, have numerous applications. Here are some important ones.

1. In nuclear chemistry, thorium and its compounds are used.
2. Atomic reactors use uranium and plutonium as fuels.
3. Incandescent gas mantles are made from ThO₂.
4. In medicine, thorium salts are used for treating cancer.
5. The industries of glass, ceramics, textiles, and medicine all use uranium salts.