Strontium
Strontium is a Group 2 element, which means it has two valence electrons and a similar electron configuration to other elements in the group, such as calcium and barium. Strontium has four naturally occurring isotopes, with Strontium-88 being the most abundant. It is also one of the heavier alkaline earth metals, with a density of 2.64 g/cm³.
One of the most significant properties of Strontium is its radioactivity. Strontium-90 is a radioactive isotope that is produced during nuclear fission and has a half-life of about 29 years. It is a significant contributor to nuclear waste and poses health risks to humans and other organisms.
Strontium is also used in various applications, such as pyrotechnics and fireworks, where it produces a bright red color. It is also used in the production of ferrite magnets, which are commonly found in small motors, loudspeakers, and computer hard drives. Strontium is also used in nuclear medicine, specifically as a radiotracer in bone scans to diagnose and monitor diseases such as osteoporosis. Additionally, Strontium ranelate, a drug that contains Strontium, has been used to treat osteoporosis in some countries.