
D2O (Deuterium Oxide)
Deuterium oxide, or D₂O, commonly known as heavy water, is a form of water where the hydrogen atoms are replaced with deuterium, a heavier isotope of hydrogen. Unlike regular water (H₂O), which has hydrogen atoms, heavy water contains deuterium, making it denser and slightly different in chemical properties. It is used in scientific research, especially in nuclear reactors to cool and stabilize the system, and in spectroscopy. While non-toxic in small amounts, heavy water is not suitable for regular drinking as it can interfere with biological processes.