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Why has Strontium become the most controversial chemical element?
Strontium (symbol Sr, atomic number 38) is a chemical element that is an alkaline earth metal and is a soft, silvery-white metallic element with a yellowish appearance. It is extremely chemically reactive and forms a dark oxide layer when exposed to air. The properties of this element in the periodic table are very similar to those of its upper and lower neighbors calcium and barium, and it is mainly found in nature in celestine and strontianite. The discovery of Strontium can be traced back to 1790, when scientists' understanding of it was still immature. Today, Strontium plays a pivotal role in many fields such as technology, medicine, and the environment.
“The element Strontium is named after the Strontian village in Scotland, where scientists first discovered ores of these elements in 1760.”
Chemical properties of Strontium
Strontium is a bivalent metal whose properties are mainly between those of calcium and barium. Its melting point is 777°C and its boiling point is 1377°C. These data show its unique position in chemical properties. Strontium reacts with water to form barium hydroxide and hydrogen, and burns in air to form oxides and nitrogen compounds. Strontium's oxides and hydroxides also pose potential safety hazards due to the reactivity of metallic calcium and barium.
The impact of radioactive isotopes
Strontium’s radioactive isotope, Strontium-90, is an element that has attracted widespread attention in nuclear conflicts. Because its aggregation in the human body is similar to that of calcium, its impact on the human body is particularly obvious. The presence of this isotope may cause bone tumors and a variety of other cancers. The Chernobyl accident in 1986 released a large amount of Strontium-90 into the environment, which had a profound impact on ecology and public health.
“The possible presence of Strontium-90 in the home and surrounding environment has many people concerned and uneasy about its health effects.”
Applications of Strontium in Medicine
In the medical field, the application of Strontium has also caused controversy. Strontium-89 is used to treat metastatic bone cancer because of its ability to effectively target bones and deliver radiation to fight cancer cells. However, Strontium-90's existence as radioactive waste makes its detection in the environment critical.
Natural distribution and biological impacts of Strontium
Strontium is the 15th most abundant element on earth and is mainly found in living organisms in the form of calcium. It is absorbed and gradually accumulates in the lung bones and may pose health risks to growing children. Studies have found that the biological half-life of Strontium in the human body varies, and is generally estimated to be around 18 years, which means that long-term exposure may lead to accumulation.
Industrial uses of Strontium
On the industrial side, Strontium's main use used to be in cathode ray tubes for color televisions, accounting for about 75% of U.S. market consumption. However, as technology advances, this need is decreasing and has a significant impact on the mining and refining of Strontium. In addition, Strontium salt is often used in fireworks to add a reddish effect.
"Although Strontium has broad application potential, its safety and environmental issues still require strict attention."
Conclusion
From chemical properties to industrial applications, Strontium exists everywhere, affecting our lives and health. Strontium may play an important role in scientific research and new technologies in the future as concerns about its safety and potential hazards increase. However, can change balance the needs of technological development and environmental protection and health?
