californium

noun

cal·i·for·ni·um | \ ˌka-lə-ˈfȯr-nē-əm

Definition of californium

: a radioactive chemical element with atomic number 98 that is produced artificially from the decay of berkelium and that is used chiefly as a neutron source in radiography and to start nuclear reactors — see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of californium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web But the chase for 120 is on hold until researchers obtain the amount of californium—a rare element produced in high-flux nuclear reactors—needed for 120’s target. — Daniel Clery, Science | AAAS, "Hopes evaporate for the superheavy element flerovium having a long life," 12 Feb. 2021

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'californium.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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“Californium.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/californium. Accessed 6 May. 2021.

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californium

noun

cal·i·for·ni·um | \ ˌkal-ə-ˈfȯr-nē-əm

Medical Definition of californium

: an artificially prepared radioactive element discovered by bombarding an isotope of curium with alpha particles —symbol Cf — see Chemical Elements Table

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