Question:

Which among the following is an actinoid element?

Updated On: Feb 9, 2024
  • Pa
  • Lu
  • Gd
  • Pr
Hide Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

An actinoid element belongs to the actinide series, which is the series of elements in the periodic table with atomic numbers from 89 to 103. Based on this information, we can determine which of the following elements is an actinoid element: 
(A) Pa (Z=91) is an actinoid element. 
(B) Lu (Z=71) is a lanthanoid (also known as lanthanide) element, not an actinoid element. 
(C) Gd (Z=64) is a lanthanoid element, not an actinoid element. 
(D) Pr (Z=59) is a lanthanoid element, not an actinoid element. 
Therefore, the only actinoid element among the options is: (A) Pa (Z=91)

Was this answer helpful?
1
0

Concepts Used:

Actinoids

Actinoids are a series of elements in the periodic table that have atomic numbers ranging from 89 to 103. These elements are also known as the actinides or the actinide series. They are located in the second row at the bottom of the periodic table, below the lanthanoid series.

The actinoids are all radioactive, with the exception of thorium, and most of them are synthetic, meaning they do not occur naturally on Earth. They are typically found in nuclear reactors or in laboratory experiments.

The actinoids have similar properties to the lanthanoids, as they both have f-electrons that are partially filled. However, the actinoids are generally more reactive and have a greater range of oxidation states compared to the lanthanoids. They also have a greater tendency to form complex ions and compounds.

The actinoids are of great importance in nuclear technology and chemistry, as they are used in nuclear reactors and in the production of nuclear weapons. They also have potential applications in areas such as medical imaging and cancer treatment. However, their radioactive nature means that they can also be highly toxic and pose a significant environmental risk if not handled properly.