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metal that is found in minerals such as pitchblende. Uranium will tar- nish when exposed to air, and if it is in the form of a very fine powder, it will ignite spontaneously. But what else makes this mineral unique? Ask just about anyone about uranium and the first thing they will probably talk about is radioactivity. Uranium is a radioactive element, which breaks down into more stable elements while giving off energy. This energy has been used in weaponry and also to generate huge amounts of electricity. With its radioactive behavior and resulting products, uranium has many more uses and applications than those mentioned. Read on to find out more about how uranium is used in boats, as armor, as a way to determine the age of ancient rocks, and even to color glass. Find out how uranium deposits are found, how they are removed from the ground, and the special considerations that need to be taken in order to protect the environment and the people around the mineral. Plus, find out what the future holds for this fasci- nating element and natural resource.

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The Chemistry of Everyday Elements