Which element was discovered most recently? This question piques the curiosity of many who are fascinated by the continuous exploration and discovery in the field of chemistry. The answer to this question brings us to the element discovered in 2019, known as Element 117, officially named Tennessine (Ts). This discovery marks a significant milestone in the quest to expand the periodic table and understand the fundamental building blocks of matter.
The discovery of Element 117 was a collaborative effort by scientists from the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research in Dubna, Russia, and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in the United States. The team used a technique called “hot fusion” to combine atoms of bismuth and calcium, resulting in the creation of Element 117. This new element has an atomic number of 117, which means it has 117 protons in its nucleus.
The discovery of Element 117 was a long-awaited achievement in the scientific community. The periodic table had been incomplete since the element with atomic number 114 was discovered in 2010. The discovery of Element 117 filled this gap and brought the total number of known elements to 118, which is the predicted number of elements that could exist based on the periodic table’s structure.
The naming of Element 117 was also a significant event. The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) approved the name Tennessine (Ts) in June 2016. The name is derived from Tennessee, the state where Oak Ridge National Laboratory is located, which played a crucial role in the discovery of Element 117.
The discovery of Element 117 has several implications for the scientific community. Firstly, it provides further evidence that the periodic table is a comprehensive framework for organizing elements based on their atomic properties. Secondly, it contributes to our understanding of the properties of heavy elements, which are essential for the study of nuclear physics and the development of new materials. Lastly, the discovery of Element 117 serves as a reminder of the importance of international collaboration in scientific research.
In conclusion, the discovery of Element 117, or Tennessine, in 2019 represents the most recent addition to the periodic table. This achievement highlights the ongoing efforts of scientists worldwide to expand our knowledge of the elements and the universe. As we continue to explore the unknown, the periodic table will undoubtedly be updated with more fascinating elements in the future.
