Definition

A silvery, metallic element that is radioactive and has the atomic number 93. It is found in small amounts in uranium ores and is created in nuclear reactions. It is similar to uranium and is used in nuclear reactors.

Example

Neptunium is used in some types of nuclear reactors and research.

Conversation

Did you know that neptunium is actually a man-made element?

Really? I had no idea it was artificial!

Yeah, it's created in nuclear reactors during plutonium production.

That's fascinating! I never realized how complex elements could be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Neptunium → It is formed from "Neptune" (the name of the Roman god of the sea) and the suffix "-ium" (a common suffix used in chemistry to denote metallic elements). The word "neptunium" refers to the element named after the planet Neptune, which in turn is named after the god of the sea.

Memory Tip

Think of the Roman god of the sea, Neptune, when you hear neptunium, as the element is named after him.

Visually Confused Words