The Latest Discovery- Unveiling the Most Recent Element Added to the Periodic Table
What was the most recent element discovered? The answer to this question is Element 117, officially known as Tennessine (Ts). Discovered in 2010 by a team of scientists at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research in Dubna, Russia, and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in the United States, Element 117 is a synthetic element that does not occur naturally on Earth. Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of this element’s discovery and its significance in the field of chemistry.
The discovery of Element 117 was a result of a collaborative effort between the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research in Dubna and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. The researchers used a cyclotron, a type of particle accelerator, to collide calcium ions with bismuth targets. This process resulted in the formation of Element 117, which was confirmed through the detection of its decay products.
Element 117 is a member of the halogen family, which includes elements like fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine. It has an atomic number of 117, meaning it has 117 protons in its nucleus. Due to its high atomic number, Element 117 is highly unstable and radioactive, with a half-life of just 8 milliseconds. This means that only a tiny amount of Element 117 can be produced in the laboratory.
The discovery of Element 117 was a significant milestone in the field of chemistry, as it expanded the periodic table to include a new element. This achievement was celebrated by the scientific community, and in 2016, the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) officially recognized Element 117 as a new element. It was named Tennessine in honor of the state of Tennessee, where Oak Ridge National Laboratory is located, and the word “tennesine” was derived from the state’s name.
The discovery of Element 117 has several implications for the field of chemistry. Firstly, it provides valuable insights into the properties of heavy elements, which are essential for understanding the behavior of elements at the extreme end of the periodic table. Secondly, the synthesis of Element 117 contributes to the ongoing effort to fill the gaps in the periodic table, ensuring that the table accurately represents all known elements.
Moreover, the discovery of Element 117 has practical applications in various fields. For instance, researchers can study the properties of heavy elements to develop new materials with unique properties. These materials could potentially be used in advanced technologies, such as superconductors, catalysts, and nuclear fuels.
In conclusion, Element 117, or Tennessine, is the most recent element discovered, and its discovery marks a significant achievement in the field of chemistry. The collaboration between scientists from different countries and the use of advanced technology have led to the expansion of the periodic table and the advancement of our understanding of the universe. As researchers continue to explore the properties of heavy elements, the discovery of Element 117 paves the way for future scientific breakthroughs and technological innovations.
