Polonium is an intensely radioactive element found in tiny natural quantities as part of uranium decay chains.
Atomic number
84
Category
Post-transition metal
Period
6
Group
16
State
Solid
Fun facts about Polonium
Its radioactivity can generate substantial heat in a small mass.
Most of its emissions are alpha particles, which have short range but are dangerous inside the body.
It requires specialised containment and remote handling.
Common uses of Polonium
Research
Historical anti-static devices
Specialised heat sources
Where Polonium sits in the periodic table
Polonium is classified as a post-transition metal in period 6 and group 16 of the periodic table. Under the conditions represented in this reference, its state is solid.
Quick chemistry revision
For quick revision, pair the symbol Po with atomic number 84 and the listed atomic mass [209]. The summary, facts, and uses above keep those element properties together in one reference.