Breakthrough in Element 116 Synthesis Paves Way for Heavier Atoms

Berkeley Lab's innovative use of titanium beams could lead to the creation of element 120, the heaviest yet.

Scientists at Berkeley Lab successfully created element 116 using a titanium beam, a first in the field.
The experiment marks a crucial step towards synthesizing element 120, which would have 120 protons.
The technique involves smashing titanium ions into a californium target, a challenging but feasible process.
Producing element 120 could take several years, with experiments potentially starting in 2025.
This advancement may deepen our understanding of nuclear physics and the strong force.