Deuterium
| Formula / Notation | ²H or D; ²₁H; deuterium nucleus = deuteron (p + n) |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Heavy hydrogen, ²H, D, deuterium isotope, heavy hydrogen isotope |
What is Deuterium?
A stable isotope of hydrogen with one proton and one neutron in its nucleus (symbol: ²H or D). It has approximately twice the mass of ordinary hydrogen. Heavy water (D₂O) contains deuterium instead of regular hydrogen and is used as a moderator in nuclear reactors.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Heavy hydrogen, ²H, D, deuterium isotope, heavy hydrogen isotope
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A stable isotope of hydrogen with one proton and one neutron in its nucleus (symbol: ²H or D). It has approximately twice the mass of ordinary hydrogen. Heavy water (D₂O) contains deuterium instead of regular hydrogen and is used as a moderator in nuclear reactors.
Deuterium is used as a neutron moderator in heavy water reactors (CANDU), as a tracer in NMR spectroscopy (deuterated solvents: CDCl₃, DMSO-d₆), in mechanistic studies via kinetic isotope effects, and in deuterium-labelled drugs to extend metabolic stability (selectively replacing metabolically labi…
Deuterium gas (D₂) is flammable (same hazard profile as hydrogen). Heavy water (D₂O) is of very low toxicity in small amounts but high doses impair biological processes. Tritium (³H) is the radioactive hydrogen isotope and poses internal radiation hazard.
The formula or notation for Deuterium is: ²H or D; ²₁H; deuterium nucleus = deuteron (p + n)