New Superheavy Element Synthesis Could Soon Add a New Row to the Periodic Table
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory advanced the synthesis of superheavy elements, particularly element 120, using titanium 50, potentially leading to the discovery of the "island of stability" in nuclear physics.
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Researchers at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have made significant progress in synthesizing superheavy elements, particularly element 120, which could lead to the discovery of the "island of stability." This concept refers to a theoretical region in the periodic table where superheavy elements may exist for longer periods than those currently created, which typically decay almost instantaneously. The team successfully produced livermorium (element 116) using a novel method involving titanium 50, a rare isotope. By heating titanium to 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit and directing it into a high-energy beam, they were able to collide it with other atoms to create superheavy elements. This method marks a departure from traditional techniques that relied on calcium 48, which has limitations due to its lower proton count. The new approach allows for the potential synthesis of heavier elements beyond the reach of previous methods. The successful use of titanium 50 not only demonstrates the viability of this technique but also provides critical data for future experiments aimed at creating element 120, which is expected to be relatively long-lived. This research could have significant implications for nuclear physics and materials science, as it may lead to the exploration of new electron configurations and enhance our understanding of the periodic table. The findings were presented at the Nuclear Structure conference and are under review for publication in the journal Physical Review Letters.
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Scientists at Berkeley Lab created element 116 (livermorium) using a titanium beam, advancing towards making element 120 near the "island of stability." The successful experiment sets the stage for future superheavy element creation.
Physicists may now have a way to make element 120
Physicists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory synthesized livermorium by colliding titanium and plutonium atoms, paving the way for creating element 120. This breakthrough enhances understanding of nuclear stability and exotic element formation.
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Related
Quantum chemistry helps characterize coordination complex of elusive Element 61
Scientists at ORNL used quantum chemistry to study promethium, Element 61, revealing its coordination complex and electronic structure. The research, published in Nature, highlights the synergy between experimental and computational methods.
New design approach identifies routes to stronger titanium alloys
MIT researchers and ATI Specialty Materials developed titanium alloys with exceptional strength and ductility by optimizing composition and processing techniques. The study offers insights into crystal plasticity and potential applications in aerospace.
Nuclear spectroscopy breakthrough could rewrite fundamental constants of nature
Breakthrough in nuclear spectroscopy at UCLA enhances atomic clock precision using thorium-229 nucleus excited by laser in fluorine-rich crystal. Research by Prof. Eric Hudson could redefine fundamental constants and improve deep space technology.
A New Way to Make Element 116 Opens the Door to Heavier Atoms
Scientists at Berkeley Lab created element 116 (livermorium) using a titanium beam, advancing towards making element 120 near the "island of stability." The successful experiment sets the stage for future superheavy element creation.
Physicists may now have a way to make element 120
Physicists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory synthesized livermorium by colliding titanium and plutonium atoms, paving the way for creating element 120. This breakthrough enhances understanding of nuclear stability and exotic element formation.