Question

What name was given to Element 104 by Russian physicists after their discovery in \(1964 ?\)

Short answer

The name given to Element 104 by Russian physicists was "Kurchatovium."

Step-by-step solution

Recognize the Year of Discovery

Element 104 was discovered in 1964. Russian physicists were involved in this discovery, and they assigned their own name to it.

Identify the Name Given

The name given by Russian physicists to Element 104 in 1964 is "Kurchatovium." This name was chosen to honor Igor Kurchatov, a prominent Soviet nuclear physicist.

Key concepts

Element Naming

Elements on the periodic table often have intriguing names that tell a story about their discovery or pay homage to significant figures and places. The process of naming elements is either done by the discoverer or suggested by them. These names can reflect:

• Their properties (e.g., Hydrogen means "water-former")
• Their place of discovery (e.g., Europium was named after the continent Europe)
• Renowned scientists (e.g., Einsteinium was named after Albert Einstein)

Element 104 is a perfect example of being named after a scientist. After its discovery in 1964 by Russian physicists, it was named "Kurchatovium," in honor of the Soviet nuclear physicist Igor Kurchatov. This practice of naming elements helps preserve the history and contributions of individuals in the field of science.

Periodic Table

The periodic table is more than just a chart of the elements; it is a fundamental tool in chemistry that organizes all known chemical elements. It is arranged by increasing atomic number and recurring chemical properties, allowing scientists to understand the relationships between different elements. Mendeleev, a Russian chemist, first published a recognizable periodic table in 1869. This table allowed scientists to predict undiscovered elements and their properties, as gaps were evident in the sequence. Today, the periodic table is a universal icon in science. It not only reflects the scientific achievements of different nations but also adapts to new discoveries, like element 104's initial naming as Kurchatovium by Russian physicists. However, the periodic table has evolved to accommodate more acceptable and standardized element names.

Chemistry History

Chemistry has a rich and fascinating history that extends back thousands of years. It encompasses the work of alchemists, who laid early foundations in the quest for turning base metals into gold, to modern chemists dedicated to pushing the boundaries of known science. The discovery of new elements, like element 104, highlighted the intense competition and collaboration between countries, showcasing both historical tensions and cooperation in scientific advancements. During the 20th century, especially amid geopolitical rivalries, scientists from the Soviet Union and the United States often raced to discover and name new elements. These scientific endeavors led not only to improvements in nuclear technology but also to increased global collaborations in scientific communities. This network of shared knowledge and progress continues to grow, as seen with international efforts to agree upon names for elements, promoting a more harmonious global scientific community.