Americium (Am), with atomic number 95, is a synthetic, radioactive, silvery-white metal, and a member of the actinide series,

 Americium (Am), with atomic number 95, is a synthetic, radioactive, silvery-white metal, and a member of the actinide series, primarily used in smoke detectors and as a source of radiation in various applications. 

Here's a more detailed look:

Discovery and Synthesis:

Americium was first synthesized in 1944 by Glenn Seaborg and his team at the University of Chicago, as part of the Manhattan Project. 

Properties:

It's a radioactive metal, meaning it undergoes radioactive decay, emitting particles and energy. 

It's a synthetic element, meaning it doesn't exist naturally on Earth and must be created in a laboratory. 

It's a member of the actinide series, a group of radioactive elements that are typically found in the lower part of the periodic table. 

It has a silvery-white appearance. 

Isotopes:

Americium has no stable isotopes, meaning all its isotopes are radioactive. 

The most common isotopes are americium-241 (241Am) and americium-243 (243Am). 

241Am is used in ionization smoke detectors, and 243Am is the most stable isotope. 

Uses:

Smoke Detectors: Americium-241 is used in ionization smoke detectors, where its alpha particles ionize the air, allowing a small electric current to flow. When smoke enters, it absorbs the alpha particles, disrupting the current and triggering the alarm. 

Radiation Source: Americium is used as a source of radiation in various applications, such as in medical imaging, industrial gauges, and research. 

Nuclear Research: It can also be used as a target material in nuclear research to make even heavier elements. 

Health Effects:

Americium is radioactive and can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. 

It accumulates in bones and can cause damage to surrounding tissues. 

Exposure to americium can lead to health problems, including increased risk of certain cancers.