Tip 1: Why is deuterium water called heavy
Tip 1: Why is deuterium water called heavy
Even the most distant from science man for sureAt least once I heard the term "heavy water". In another way, it can be called "deuterium water". What is it, how can generally known water be heavy?
The whole point is that hydrogen, whose oxide andis water, exists in nature in the form of three different isotopes. The first and most common is protium. The nucleus of its atom includes a single proton. He, connecting with oxygen, forms a magic substance H2O, without which life would be impossible. The second, much less common isotope of hydrogen is called deuterium. The nucleus of its atom consists not only of a proton, but also of a neutron. Since the masses of the neutron and proton are practically the same, and the electron mass is immeasurably smaller, it is easy to understand that the deuterium atom is twice as heavy as the protium atom. Accordingly, the molar mass of deuterium oxide D2O is not 18 g / mol, as in ordinary water, but 20. The external form of heavy water is exactly the same: colorless transparent liquid without taste and odor. The third isotope is tritium, containing in the atomic nucleus one proton and two neutrons, is even rarer. And water, having the formula T2O, is called "superheavy." What else besides the difference in isotopes, differs heavy water from the usual? It is somewhat denser (1104 kg / cubic meter) and boils at a slightly higher temperature (101.4 degrees). The high density is another reason for the name. But the most significant difference lies in the fact that heavy water is a poison for higher organisms (mammals, including humans, birds, fish). Of course, one-time consumption of a small amount of this liquid will not cause significant harm to human health, however, it is unsuitable for drinking. The main use of heavy water is in atomic energy. It serves to inhibit neutrons and as a coolant. It is also used in particle physics and certain areas of medicine. An interesting fact: during the Second World War the Nazis tried to create an atomic bomb, using this liquid, which was produced at one of the plants in Vemorka (Norway), for experimental production. To frustrate their plans, several attempts were made to sabotage the plant; one of them, in February 1943, was crowned with success.
Tip 2: What is heavy and light water
Daily using ordinary drinking water,Most of the inhabitants of the planet do not suspect that the right fluid can be light or heavy. Depending on these characteristics, water can be useful and prolong life or, conversely, reduce it and promote the development of diseases.
