Definition

A rare and highly radioactive metal that is similar to uranium and has several isotopes, with the most common being protactinium-231, which has a long half-life.

Example

Protactinium is used in some types of nuclear research due to its radioactive properties.

Conversation

Did you know that protactinium is one of the rarest elements on Earth?

Really? I had no idea it was that rare!

Yeah, it's actually radioactive and pretty toxic too.

Wow, that's interesting! I guess we should stay away from it!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Protactinium is derived from the Greek roots "prota-" (meaning first) and "aktinos" (meaning ray). The name reflects its position as the first member of the actinide series, which are elements that emit rays or radiation. Thus, protactinium refers to the element that is the first in the series of radioactive elements that emit rays.

Memory Tip

Think of 'first' ('prota-') and 'ray' ('aktinos') to remember that protactinium is the first element in the actinide series that emits radiation.

Visually Confused Words