Strontium

Sometimes science does good things and sometimes science goes too far. Take for example Nobel: he invented TNT to help build infrastructure (i.e. blasting through rock for railroads, highways, etc.) but realized its potential to do catastrophic damage. From this he invented the Nobel Prize to recognize great advances in science.

On a smaller scale, the NY Times just highlighted the use of technology to create a safer playground. While science has advanced playgrounds to make the surfaces softer and the equipment safer, there have been detriments to the safety of playgrounds. Research has suggested that these safe playgrounds reduce risk taking because kids do not have the challenge of the monkey bars or the height of the jungle gym. Kids who have played on safe playgrounds also tend to have phobias in their adolescence. So the question arises: do we give up cuts, bruises, or broken bones for phobias that must be medicated or cured with therapy? 


Historical Reference: Strontium-90, a radioactive isotope of strontium, is found in nuclear fallout (think: WWII, Chernobyl). Because of its similarities to calcium, strontium is a bone-seeker, which is why many people suffered from bone cancers (among other cancers) and generations later were affected with limb deformations (though that is also a compilation of the effects of many radioactive isotopes).

Common Occurrences: Strontium is a component of luminous paints and powders as well as the main ingredient in Sensodyne toothpaste. It is also found in vitamins that stimulate bone growth.

Fun Fact: Before imitation diamonds were made of cubic zirconium they were made of strontium titanate.