Uranyl(2+)

Uranyl(2+) is a chemical compound that is a cation of uranium in the oxidation state of +2. It is a significant form of uranium in many nuclear reactors and is also found in some minerals and soils.

Chemical Properties

Uranyl(2+) is a dioxo cation, meaning it has two oxygen atoms bonded to the uranium atom. The uranium atom in the uranyl ion is in the +2 oxidation state. This ion is linear, with the uranium atom in the center and the two oxygen atoms on either side. The bond length between the uranium and oxygen atoms is approximately 1.79 angstroms.

Physical Properties

Uranyl(2+) ions are typically yellow in color and are highly radioactive. They are also highly toxic, and exposure can lead to serious health problems, including kidney damage and cancer.

Uses

Uranyl(2+) ions are used in the production of nuclear fuel and in the nuclear power industry. They are also used in some types of photography and in the production of glass and ceramics.

Safety

Due to its radioactivity and toxicity, handling of uranyl(2+) should be done with extreme caution. Protective clothing and equipment should be used, and exposure should be minimized as much as possible.

See Also

• Uranium
• Nuclear reactor
• Radioactivity
• Toxicity