Los elementos: el plutonio

Plutonium is a radioactive metal found in uranium ores, capable of releasing large amounts of energy through fission. It plays a crucial role in nuclear technology, contributing to a third of the energy generated by nuclear power plants and being a key component in atomic bombs. Plutonium was used in the first atomic bomb tested in 1945 and has powered space missions like the Voyager probes beyond the solar system.

What is a key characteristic of plutonium that makes it significant in energy production?

• It is a renewable resource.

• It releases large amounts of energy through fission.

• It is non-radioactive.

• It is abundant in nature.

What fraction of energy in nuclear power plants is generated by plutonium?

• 1/3

• 1/2

• 3/4

• 1/4

Which of the following is a byproduct of reprocessed nuclear fuel?

• Hydrogen

• Plutonium

• Helium

• Carbon

Where was the first atomic bomb, which used plutonium, tested?

• Nevada

• New Mexico

• Texas

• California

What space mission utilized plutonium for propulsion beyond the solar system?

• Hubble

• Apollo

• Voyager

• Galileo