Hobbies And Interests
Physical Characteristics
Strontium is silver in color when freshly cut, but it rapidly becomes yellowish due to the formation of strontium oxide. Its reaction with water produces strontium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. Strontium also produces a crimson-colored flame upon burning.
Cathode Ray Tubes
Naturally occurring strontium has four stable isotopes. Strontium compounds are mainly used in making glass for color television cathode ray tubes that serve to prevent X-ray emissions.
Decomposition
Strontium is softer compared to calcium and adding it to water, results in its decomposition at a faster rate than what calcium does. Nitrogen absorption by strontium is inhibited below 380 degrees Celsius. In order to prevent strontium from oxidizing, it should be preserved in kerosene.
Moon Dust & Glow In The Dark Materials
Moon dust mainly consists of strontium aluminate. This same compound is also found in phosphorescence materials that glow in the dark, such as luminous paints, party-wear and toys.
Harmful Effects
The non-radioactive isotopes of strontium are non-toxic. While the beta emitter strontium-90 is not considered injurious to health when a person is externally exposed to it, if taken inside the body, it can increase the risk of occurrence of certain cancers. Because strontium has similar chemical properties Calcium̵2;a close relative on the periodic table̵2;it replaces and mimics calcium in the human body.
Other Uses
Strontium has been used in atomic clock making as well. It was used to make the most accurate atomic clock in the world. Salts containing strontium are used in flares and fireworks to add crimson to the brightness. Strontium-chloride is used for making toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Strontium oxide can be used for improving the quality of pottery glazes as well.