heavy hydrogen

Heavy hydrogen, known as deuterium, is an isotope of hydrogen. While regular hydrogen has one proton and no neutrons, deuterium has one proton and one neutron in its nucleus. This extra neutron gives it roughly twice the mass of regular hydrogen. Deuterium occurs naturally in small amounts in water, known as “heavy water” when combined with oxygen. It is used in various scientific applications, including nuclear reactors and studies of chemical processes. Its unique properties help researchers understand fundamental aspects of physics and chemistry.