uranyl group
A scientist carefully handles a sample containing the uranyl group in the laboratory.
Noun: - The bivalent radical UO₂ which forms salts with acids: A chemical group consisting of a uranium atom bonded to two oxygen atoms, carrying a double positive charge. It is a common and stable ion in uranium chemistry, forming compounds known as uranyl salts.
The term "uranyl group" is used specifically in inorganic and nuclear chemistry to denote the positively charged diatomic ion (UO₂)²⁺. - It functions as a noun, typically as the subject or object of a sentence in technical contexts. - It is often followed by the name of an associated anion to form the name of a compound (e.g., uranyl nitrate).
- The uranyl group is a key component in many nuclear fuel cycle compounds.
- Scientists studied the complex formed between the uranyl group and carbonate ions.
- Uranyl group compounds often exhibit a characteristic yellow-green color.
- "Uranyl ion": Often used interchangeably with "uranyl group" to emphasize its ionic nature in solution.
- The mobility of the uranyl ion in groundwater is a major environmental concern.
- Structural Role: The uranyl group often acts as a linear cation (O=U=O)²⁺ around which other atoms or molecules coordinate.
- In the crystal structure, the uranyl group is surrounded by six nitrate ions.
- Uranyl (adjective): Pertaining to or containing the uranyl group.
- Uranyl nitrate is a common chemical compound.
- Uranate (noun): A salt containing uranium in an anion, often contrasted with uranyl salts which contain uranium in a cation.
- Uranyl cation: A synonym stressing the ionic charge.
- Uranyl ion: The charged species (UO₂)²⁺.
- Uranyl(VI) ion: A more formal name specifying the +6 oxidation state of uranium.
The term refers exclusively to the specific molecular entity UO₂²⁺. It does not refer to uranium metal, uranium oxides in other forms (like U₃O₈), or uranium in other oxidation states. Its meaning is precise and technical.
A scientist carefully handles a sample containing the uranyl group in the laboratory.
- the bivalent radical UO2 which forms salts with acids