Discovered : by M.H. Klaproth in 1789 Isolated in Berlin, Germany Origin : The element is named after the planet Uranus. Description : A radioactive, silvery metal consisting of 99% uranium-238 and 1% uranium-235. This rare form is the one needed for nuclear weapons. To separate the two forms, uranium must be turned into uranium hexafluoride, a volatile liquid. World production of uranium is 35,000 tonnes, with reserves amounting to over 200 years supply. Image : Astrological symbol for the planet Uranus.