Since it is naturally radioactive, uranium, usually in the form of uranium dioxide (UO2), is most commonly used in the nuclear power industry to generate electricity.
Uranium was discovered by Martin Heinrich Klaproth, a German chemist, in the mineral pitchblende in 1789.
Uranium-238, uranium's most common isotope, can be converted into plutonium-239, a fissionable material that can also be used as a fuel in nuclear reactors. Uranium-238 has a half-life of 4.468 billion years, or about 1/3 the estimated life of the universe.
Uranium compounds have been used for centuries to color glass. A 2,000 year old sample of yellow glass found near Naples, Italy contains uranium oxide. Other uranium compounds have also been used to make vaseline glass and glazes. The uranium within these items is radioactive and should be treated with care.
Read more at http://www.omg-facts.com/page/4#x2XGpsWkhZlXUt7G.99
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