Then and Now – The Periodic Table Element – Uranium

Arts Tribune

1 month ago

Uranium, a naturally occurring radioactive element, has not always been associated only with nuclear power and weapons. In the early 20th century, uranium’s unique properties and impressive energy potential led to its exploration and use in various applications. However, as we gained a deeper understanding of its long-term effects and the alarming dangers associated with radioactivity, the use of uranium for non-nuclear purposes gradually declined. This article aims to shed light on the first uses of uranium and the reasons behind its diminishing usage.

Discovery and Early Applications:
Uranium was officially discovered by German chemist Martin Heinrich Klaproth in 1789. Its unique properties quickly garnered interest, leading to early uses in diverse industries.
Medicine: In the late 19th century, uranium was used in the medical field as a treatment for various ailments, including cancer. The element’s radioactivity was thought to have curative properties. However, its use was discontinued due to the long-term harmful effects of radiation exposure.
Glass Coloring: Uranium glass, also known as “Vaseline glass,” gained popularity in the early 20th century. Its distinct greenish-yellow hue, achieved through small amounts of uranium added to the glass formula, made it highly sought after for decorative items. The use of uranium in glass production was eventually discontinued due to concerns about radiation exposure.
Uranium and Energy Potential:
During the mid-20th century, researchers recognized uranium’s potential as a major energy source due to its ability to undergo nuclear fission and release enormous amounts of energy.
Nuclear power generation: After the discovery of nuclear fission in the late 1930s, the development of atomic power plants became a focus for scientists and engineers. Uranium’s ability to sustain a chain reaction made it ideal for fueling nuclear reactors. This led to the rise of nuclear power as an alternative to fossil fuels, with uranium as the primary fuel source.
Military Applications: In addition to peaceful uses, uranium’s nuclear properties also attracted military interest during World War II. The Manhattan Project, a top-secret U.S. research project, harnessed the power of uranium in the development of atomic bombs.

Uri TheUranium-Horned Unicorn from the Magical Elements of the Periodic Table

The Decline of Non-Nuclear Applications:
Despite initial enthusiasm about uranium’s unique properties, growing concern over its long-term health and environmental effects led to a decrease in non-nuclear applications.
Radioactive hazards: Uranium’s radioactivity poses serious risks to human health and the environment. Prolonged exposure to its decay products, including radon gas, can lead to various health issues, such as lung cancer and radiation poisoning. These health risks resulted in the decreased use of uranium in areas such as medicine and glassmaking.
Nuclear focus: Uranium’s energy potential as a fuel for nuclear reactors overshadowed its alternative applications. As concerns regarding climate change and the need for clean energy sources grew, the focus shifted toward maximizing uranium usage for power generation, leaving less room for non-nuclear purposes.

Uranium’s fascinating properties and early uses in medicine and glass production marked its entrance into human history. However, as we deepened our understanding of radiation hazards and witnessed the incredible energy potential of uranium through nuclear power generation, its non-nuclear applications gradually diminished. Today, the extensive use of uranium is primarily limited to the nuclear industry, where its power-generating capabilities contribute to providing electricity to millions but with utmost caution towards the potential risks it poses.

This article is brought to you by Sybrina Durant, the author of the middle grade picture book, Magical Elements of the Periodic Table Presented Alphabetically By The Metal Horn Unicorns. Learn More. In that book Uranium is presented by the unicorn, Uri. Read Uri’s Story.