Can Elements Die? Nuclear Fusion & Element Creation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of whether elements can "die," particularly in the context of nuclear fusion and the creation of elements. Participants explore the implications of atomic interactions, the nature of elements, and the processes involved in element formation and decay.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions how an element and all its atoms could "die," suggesting that nuclear fusion combines atoms and may also create elements.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of conservation laws in the context of element creation.
  • A participant explains that while elements cannot be made by simply combining protons and neutrons, atomic collisions can lead to the formation of new elements, citing the Sun's transformation of hydrogen into helium and the creation of heavier elements in supernovae.
  • One participant seeks clarification on what it means for an element or atom to "die," questioning the relevance of the original inquiry if elements do not die.
  • Another participant notes that some elements lack stable isotopes, with certain isotopes decaying quickly and not occurring naturally, which may relate to the concept of "death" in elements.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the concept of elements "dying," with some exploring the idea of decay and stability while others focus on the processes of element creation. The discussion remains unresolved, with multiple competing views present.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the definitions of "death" in relation to elements and isotopes, as well as the implications of conservation laws and the processes of nucleosynthesis. Some assumptions about stability and decay are not fully explored.

Darnell Gah
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How could an element and all its atoms die? With nuclear fusion they combine atoms, so are they also making elements?...is it possible to make an element shooting the right number of p+,n, & e-
and then contain it/save it for later?
 
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Google "conservation laws."
 
We can't make elements by simply combining protons and neutrons, but atoms smashing together do combine to form new elements.

The Sun is constantly transforming hydrogen into helium. Other stars can produce heavier elements, and some are created in supernovae. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nucleosynthesis
 
Darnell Gah said:
How could an element and all its atoms die? With nuclear fusion they combine atoms, so are they also making elements?...is it possible to make an element shooting the right number of p+,n, & e-
and then contain it/save it for later?

What exactly does it mean for an element or an atom to "die"?

And if they don't, does the rest of your question be rendered moot?

Zz.
 
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