Heavy Water
Heavy water, chemically known as deuterium oxide (D2O), is water that contains a heavier isotope of hydrogen called deuterium, instead of the more common hydrogen isotope. While regular water (H2O) consists of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom, heavy water has two deuterium atoms and one oxygen atom. This difference gives heavy water unique properties, such as a higher boiling point and greater density. It is primarily used in nuclear reactors as a neutron moderator, which helps sustain nuclear fission reactions, and in certain scientific research applications. Heavy water is not radioactive and, in small amounts, is safe for human consumption.
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Heavy water is a form of water that contains a higher proportion of the isotope deuterium, rather than the common hydrogen found in regular water. This gives heavy water a greater molecular weight. Chemically, it’s represented as D₂O instead of H₂O. Heavy water is used in nuclear reactors and scientific research because it slows down neutrons effectively, making nuclear reactions more efficient. While it has similar properties to regular water, consuming large quantities can be harmful. It's important in the fields of physics and chemistry, especially in studies related to nuclear energy and reactions.