Understanding Thorium: Soft Metal Properties and Uses

Discover the hardness and applications of thorium in this insightful Q&A about its characteristics.

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Thorium is a soft, malleable metal with a hardness comparable to mild steel. It is relatively easy to work with and has a Mohs hardness of around 3. This means it's not particularly hard and can be scratched by harder materials. However, its chemical properties make it valuable in nuclear applications.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the hardness of thorium compared to other metals? Thorium has a Mohs hardness of around 3, comparable to mild steel, making it relatively soft and easy to work with.
  2. Why is thorium used in nuclear applications? Thorium's chemical properties make it a valuable material for nuclear applications due to its ability to breed fuel and produce less radioactive waste.
  3. How is thorium processed for its industrial uses? Thorium is extracted and processed through various chemical methods, enabling its use in nuclear reactors and other high-tech applications.

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