copernicium
Definition
Copernicium is a synthetic element that is made by colliding atoms of californium-249 and zinc-70. It is a very heavy element, with an atomic mass of 285. It is also very radioactive, with a half-life of only 1.5 seconds. This means that half of the copernicium atoms in a sample will decay into other elements in 1.5 seconds.
Copernicium is a member of the transactinide elements, which are elements with atomic numbers greater than 100. These elements are all very unstable and have very short half-lives. Copernicium is the heaviest element that has been synthesised in macroscopic quantities.
The properties of copernicium are still not well understood, because it is so difficult to study. However, scientists believe that it is a metal with a silvery-white appearance. It is also thought to be very reactive, and it may form compounds with other elements.
The study of copernicium is important because it can help us to learn more about the properties of the heaviest elements. This knowledge could help us to develop new technologies, and it could also help us to understand the formation of the Earth and other planets.
How can the word be used?
Copernicium is named after the astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
Copernicium: A synthetic chemical element with the symbol Cn and atomic number 112.
Adjective:
Copernicium: Relating to copernicium.
Etymology
The etymology of the word “copernicium” can be traced back to the name of the astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543). The word “copernicium” is a modern Latin word that was coined in 1996 by a team of German and Russian scientists who had discovered the element.
Question
What do you know about copernicium?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Copernicium is a synthetic element with the symbol Cn and atomic number 112. It was first synthesized in 1996 by a team of German scientists at the GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research. Based on its position in the periodic table, which group and period does copernicium belong to?
a) Group 12, Period 7.
b) Group 18, Period 5.
c) Group 11, Period 6.
d) Group 17, Period 4.
Answer:
a) Group 12, Period 7.
Explanation:
In the periodic table, elements are arranged in periods (horizontal rows) and groups (vertical columns) based on their atomic number and similar chemical properties. Copernicium, with an atomic number of 112, belongs to Group 12 (also known as the zinc group) and Period 7.