Synthesis of a New Element with Atomic Number Z=117
Abstract
The discovery of a new chemical element with atomic number Z=117 is reported. The isotopes 129317 and 129417 were produced in fusion reactions between Ca48 and Bk249. Decay chains involving 11 new nuclei were identified by means of the Dubna gas-filled recoil separator. The measured decay properties show a strong rise of stability for heavier isotopes with Z≥111, validating the concept of the long sought island of enhanced stability for superheavy nuclei.
- Publication:
-
Physical Review Letters
- Pub Date:
- April 2010
- DOI:
- 10.1103/PhysRevLett.104.142502
- Bibcode:
- 2010PhRvL.104n2502O
- Keywords:
-
- 27.90.+b;
- 23.60.+e;
- 24.60.Dr;
- 25.70.Jj;
- 220<
- =A;
- Alpha decay;
- Statistical compound-nucleus reactions;
- Fusion and fusion-fission reactions