Question

Consider the following information:

i. The layer of dead skin on our bodies is sufficient to protect us from most -particle radiation.

ii. Plutonium is an $\mathbf{\alpha }$-particle producer.

iii. The chemistry ${\mathbf{Pu}}^{\mathbf{4}\mathbf{+}}$of is similar to that of ${\mathbf{Fe}}^{\mathbf{3}\mathbf{+}}$.

iv. Pu oxidizes readily to${\mathbf{Pu}}^{\mathbf{4}\mathbf{+}}$.

Why is plutonium one of the most toxic substances known?

Short answer

Plutonium is oxidized by ${\mathrm{Pu}}^{4+}$and concentrates where${\mathrm{Fe}}^{3+}$ is abundant and can cause damage.

Step-by-step solution

Plutonium.

Plutonium, with the symbol Pu and atomic number 94, is a radioactive chemical element. It's a silvery gray “actinide metal” that tarnishes in the air and forms a dull covering when oxidized.

Plutonium is one of the most toxic substances.

The layer of dead skin is known to protect against alpha particles. As a result, propositions (i) and (ii) imply that plutonium does not pose a hazard to the body's outer layer.

When it is swallowed or enters the body, however, it becomes harmful, because given statements (iii) and (iv), ${\text{Pu}}^{4+}$that oxidize Pu will clump together where ${\text{Fe}}^{3+}$is most concentrated. These alpha particles can cause harm to the human body.

Pu4+concentrates on areas.

Plutonium is one of the most poisonous elements.

Because plutonium is oxidized by ${\text{Pu}}^{4+}$and concentrates where${\text{Fe}}^{3+}$ is abundant, it is regarded as one of the most dangerous chemicals. It can thus target regions and cause damage in the body rich in iron (III), such as the bone marrow.