Californium
Californium is a rare and radioactive element, symbol Cf, and atomic number 98. It was discovered in 1950 at the University of California, Berkeley, named after the state of California. Californium is produced in very small amounts and is used mainly in nuclear reactors and scientific research. It emits neutrons, making it valuable for detecting metals and in medical applications, such as cancer treatment. Due to its radioactivity, handling californium requires special precautions. While it plays a significant role in various fields, its scarcity and radioactive nature limit its everyday use.
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Californium-244 is a radioactive isotope of californium, a synthetic element created in laboratories. It has 98 protons and 146 neutrons in its nucleus. Californium-244 is notable for its ability to emit neutrons, making it useful in various applications, including neutron radiography and as a neutron source in scientific research. It is also used in some medical treatments and in the nuclear industry. Due to its radioactivity, handling Californium-244 requires safety precautions to minimize exposure, as it can be harmful to living organisms. Its discovery and properties help advance both science and technology.