UF6, or uranium hexafluoride, is a chemical compound used in the nuclear fuel cycle. It consists of one uranium atom bonded to six fluorine atoms. UF6 is unique because it can easily change from a solid to a gas at relatively low temperatures, making it suitable for the enrichment process of uranium. In the enrichment process, UF6 is converted into a gas to separate isotopes of uranium, primarily U-235 and U-238. This separation is crucial for producing fuel for nuclear reactors and weapons. The handling of UF6 requires careful safety measures due to its chemical properties and the radioactivity of uranium.