Thorium

Example:While thorium and actinium are both actinides, they differ in their radioactivity and potential applications.

Definition:A radioactive metallic element of the actinide series. One of the main actinide elements of natural uranium ores.

Example:Cerium, like thorium, is a metallic element but belongs to a different series of the periodic table.

Definition:A soft, silvery-white metallic element of the lanthanide (or rare earth) series of the periodic table. Used in making light flints for lighters and paints.

Example:Just as thorium can be used as a nuclear fuel, uranium is also a critical component in nuclear energy production.

Definition:A metallic element of the actinide series that is used as a fuel in nuclear reactors and is present in small quantities in the Earth's crust.