Naturally Occurring Elements: the latest version

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A naturally occurring element is defined as one that has at least one isotope found in nature, particularly on Earth. Currently, there are 88 to 92 recognized naturally occurring elements, with atomic numbers ranging from 1 to 92, though some isotopes like Technetium and Promethium challenge this classification due to their radioactive nature. The discussion highlights the complexities of defining "naturally occurring," especially regarding elements produced in supernovae versus those created in human-made processes. It is noted that while many elements may exist theoretically, their natural occurrence is contingent on observable evidence. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity in definitions to accurately categorize elements as naturally occurring.
  • #31
pinball1970 said:
Vanadium 50 unstable? It's possible
Yes, I've already included in the post #20
 
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  • #32
A M said:
Yes, I've already included in the post #20
Apologies and noted.
 
  • #33
PeterDonis said:
Also, most of the naturally occurring deuterium and lithium in the universe
According to what phyzguy said, there is no universally agreed-upon definition of what constitutes "naturally occurring". So why is it still being used?
 
  • #34
A M said:
According to what phyzguy said, there is no universally agreed-upon definition of what constitutes "naturally occurring". So why is it still being used?

By "naturally occurring" in that particular post, I just meant "not made by humans in a reactor or other high-energy experiment".

Yes, there is no universally agreed upon single definition, but it's usually not difficult to figure out what is meant by the term given the context.
 
  • #35
PeterDonis said:
Yes, there is no universally agreed upon single definition
So how many known elements are "naturally occurring"? All of them?
 
  • #36
A M said:
So how many known elements are "naturally occurring"? All of them?

This has already been discussed ad nauseam in the thread. I don't see the point of rehashing it.
 
  • #37
The OP question has been sufficiently discussed. Thread closed.
 

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