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heavy element
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heavy element

chemistry
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Quick Summary

In chemistry, "heavy elements" generally refers to elements with atomic numbers greater than iron. These elements cannot be created through energy-releasing fusion reactions; instead, they require an input of energy to form.12

Heavy ions, in physics, are particles with one or more units of electric charge and a mass greater than that of a helium-4 nucleus. These are used in research, including the creation of synthetic transuranium elements.3

The synthesis of transuranium elements, which are heavier than uranium, can occur through processes like rapid-neutron capture in nuclear explosions or by bombarding targets with charged particles from accelerators. Some heavy isotopes are also produced in nuclear reactors. The properties of isotopes can differ due to mass or nuclear structure, affecting characteristics like density and atomic velocities.14

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6 Britannica Sources
  1. transuranium element - Synthesis of transuranium elements
  2. heavy ion
  3. isotope - Physical properties associated with isotopes
  4. chemical element - Neutron capture
  5. heavy
  6. chemical element - Reversible nuclear reaction equilibrium

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