What is the first transuranic element in the periodic table?

The transuranic elements are chemical elements with atomic numbers greater than 92, which is the atomic number of 'uranium' (U). All the transuranic elements are unstable and decay radioactively into other elements. The radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by radiation. Three of the most common types of decay are 'alpha', 'beta', and 'gamma'. Example: 'Neptunium' (symbol Np) is generated from neutron (n) capture in 'uranium' ore with subsequent 'beta' decay: 238 U + n> 239 U> beta decay> 238 Np. As such 'neptunium' and 'neptunium'-237, are found in trace amounts in 'uranium' ores.

Of the elements with atomic numbers 1 to 92 most can be found in nature. 'Neptunium' is a chemical element with atomic number 93. A radioactive active actinide metal, 'neptunium' is the first transuranic element. In the periodic table 'uranium' is named after the planet 'Uranus' (7th planet from the 'Sun'). This led to 'neptunium' being named after 'Neptune' (8th planet from the 'Sun'), the next planet beyond 'Uranus'.

'Neptunium' is radioactive, poisonous, and capable of accumulating in bones. It is used as a precursor for the formation of 'plutonium'-238, which is used in radioactive thermal generators to provide electricity for spacecraft. The longest-lived isotope 'neptunium'-237, is a by-product of nuclear reactors and 'plutonium' production.