Elements above uranium in the periodic table do not exist in any appreciable amounts in nature because they have short half-lives.Yet there are several elements below uranium in atomic number with equally short half-lives that do exist in appreciable amounts in nature.How can you account for this?
A)These are isotopes formed by living bodies.
B)These isotopes were placed in nature by the testing of nuclear bombs.
C)These isotopes were formed from the fusion of even smaller isotopes.
D)These isotopes result from the radioactive decay of uranium.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The isotopes with short half-lives that exist in appreciable amounts in nature below uranium are likely formed as a result of the radioactive decay of uranium. This is because uranium has a long half-life and has been present in large amounts throughout Earth's history, providing ample time for the formation of its decay products. In contrast, the elements above uranium have such short half-lives that they decay before they can accumulate in significant amounts through natural processes. Options A and C are not supported by current scientific understanding, and while option B is true, it does not explain the presence of these isotopes in appreciable amounts throughout nature.

Elements Above Uranium in the Periodic Table Do Not Exist