Definition

A group of 15 radioactive elements in the periodic table, starting with actinium and ending with lawrencium, known for their similar chemical properties.

Example

The actinide series includes elements like uranium and plutonium, which are used in nuclear reactors.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term actinide?

Yeah, I think it's related to some radioactive elements, right?

Exactly! They start with actinium and go up to lawrencium.

That's interesting! I didn't realize there were so many of them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Actinide → It is formed from "actinium" (from Greek "aktinos", meaning ray or beam) and the suffix "-ide" (used in chemistry to denote a class of elements). The term "actinide" refers to a series of elements in the periodic table that are characterized by their radioactive properties, derived from actinium, which is the first element in this series.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ray' or 'beam' ('aktinos') to remember that 'actinide' refers to elements that are often radioactive, like rays.

Visually Confused Words