ClimateAugust 12, 2026

radium

RAY-dee-um

Definition

A highly radioactive metallic chemical element that occurs in minute amounts in uranium ores and can pose significant health risks when present in drinking water.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'radius,' meaning 'ray,' referring to the powerful rays emitted by the element. It was coined in 1898 by Marie and Pierre Curie upon its discovery.

In the news

The article discusses how local water utilities in the Permian Basin are struggling with radium levels that exceed legal safety limits, highlighting a critical health concern for the community.

Pecos County Fresh Water

Read the full article ↗

insideclimatenews.org

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