Definition

A heavy, silvery-white metal that is radioactive and toxic. It is used in nuclear energy and weapons and occurs naturally in certain minerals.

Example

Uranium is used as fuel in nuclear power plants.

Conversation

Did you know that uranium is used for nuclear energy?

Yeah, I've heard that it can power a lot of things.

It's fascinating how something so heavy can create energy from uranium.

Absolutely! But it's also important to handle it carefully because it's radioactive.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Uranium is derived from 'Uranus' (from Latin 'Uranus', meaning the sky or heavens) and the suffix '-ium' (a common suffix in chemistry used to denote metallic elements). The word 'uranium' refers to the element named after the planet Uranus, symbolizing its celestial connection.

Memory Tip

Think of 'Uranus', the planet named after the sky, to remember that 'uranium' is a metal named after this celestial body.

Visually Confused Words