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Bohrium-Discovery, Properties, And Applications

October 21, 2023
written by Adeel Abbas

Bohrium, represented by the symbol ‘Bh’ and having the atomic number 107, is a highly intriguing chemical element. This article highlights its essential properties, historical context, and potential applications.

image of Bohrium element
PropertyValue
NameBohrium
SymbolBh
Atomic number107
Period in the periodic table7
Group in the periodic table7 (Transition metal)
Block in the periodic tabled
Shell structure2.8.18.32.32.13.2

Discovery

Bohrium was first synthesized in 1976 by a team of scientists at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research in Dubna, Russia. This achievement marked a significant milestone in the creation of superheavy elements.

Physical Properties

As a synthetic element, bohrium’s physical properties are not as well-defined as naturally occurring elements. It is a radioactive element, and its stability and behavior are primarily observed in controlled laboratory conditions.

Chemical Properties

Due to its radioactivity and synthetic nature, the chemical properties of bohrium are not been extensively studied. However, it is classified as a transition metal, which typically means it could exhibit a wide range of oxidation states.

Facts

  • Bohrium is named after the Danish physicist Niels Bohr, who significantly contributed to our understanding of atomic structure.
  • Its most stable isotope is Bh-270, which has a half-life of approximately 22 milliseconds.
  • Given its fleeting existence, bohrium currently has no practical applications.

Applications

Currently, bohrium has no known practical applications outside of scientific research. Its production is challenging and highly resource-intensive, limiting its use to the field of nuclear and particle physics. Scientists study bohrium to further our understanding of the behavior of superheavy elements and their role in the universe.