View source for Uranium-235

== Discovery and Isolation ==

Uranium-235 was first discovered in the early 1930s, when [[Enrico Fermi|Fermi]] and his team of scientists were conducting experiments on various elements. The discovery of Uranium-235 was a significant milestone in the field of [[Nuclear Physics|nuclear physics]], as it was the first isotope found to be capable of sustaining a [[Nuclear Chain Reaction|nuclear chain reaction]].

[[Image:Detail-52417.jpg|thumb|center|Close-up view of a piece of uranium ore.|class=only_on_mobile]]
[[Image:Detail-52418.jpg|thumb|center|Close-up view of a piece of uranium ore.|class=only_on_desktop]]

== Physical Properties ==

Uranium-235 is a heavy, radioactive isotope of [[Uranium|uranium]]. It has 92 protons and 143 neutrons in its nucleus, giving it an atomic mass of approximately 235.04 atomic mass units. It is a silver-grey metal in its solid state and has a melting point of 1132.2 degrees Celsius. 

== Chemical Properties ==

Uranium-235, like all isotopes of uranium, is a highly reactive metal. It reacts readily with oxygen, forming uranium dioxide (UO2) or uranium trioxide (UO3). It also reacts with acids but not with alkalis. 

== Radioactive Decay ==

Uranium-235 undergoes [[Radioactive Decay|radioactive decay]] and is known for its ability to sustain a nuclear chain reaction. It decays through alpha decay into Thorium-231. The half-life of Uranium-235 is approximately 703.8 million years, which is shorter than that of Uranium-238, making it more radioactive.

== Uses ==

Uranium-235 is primarily used as a fuel in [[Nuclear Reactor|nuclear reactors]] due to its ability to sustain a nuclear chain reaction. It is also used in the production of nuclear weapons. 

== Health Effects ==

Exposure to Uranium-235 can have serious health effects. It can cause kidney damage if ingested or inhaled, and its radioactivity poses risks of cancer and genetic damage.

== See Also ==

- [[Nuclear Fission]]
- [[Radioactivity]]
- [[Nuclear Reactor]]

[[Category:Nuclear Physics]]
[[Category:Chemical Elements]]
[[Category:Radioactive Decay]]