Does the Table list all possible stable configurations of atoms, or is it possible that somewhere could exist elements that don't fit into the standard model? Is it believed that the entire universe is composed of the 115-odd substances listed on the Table?
2006-09-14 11:24:39 · 5 answers · asked by AmigaJoe 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
p.s. -Notice I said *stable* elements. A super-heavy atom that lasts for 1.3 femtoseconds doesn't count.
2006-09-14 11:36:43 · update #1
The identity of the element is determined by the number of protons in the nucleus. The properties of the elements in the periodic table are arranged in a very precise, logical way based on the known laws of physics. I would think it is very unlikely that we are going to find anymore stable elements without a change in the fundamental laws of physics. But who knows...the earth was still "flat" not that long ago.
2006-09-14 12:03:37 · answer #1 · answered by Tiramysu 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, the periodic table only lists elements that are *known* to exist. It is not intended to suggest that other elements are impossible to exist.
Every so often, a new element is artificially created and added to the table. :)
A P.S. in response to your P.S. (which you wrote after I submitted my answer):
Well, to interpret your question in the strictest sense then, the periodic table does NOT list all possible stable configurations at all. The number you see listed in the periodic table is a weighted average of the atomic mass of the element, dependent on *known* relative abundance of the various isotopes of that element. By the way, my original answer answers your main question (that's in bold at the top). :)
2006-09-14 11:27:21 · answer #2 · answered by Stinkypuppy 3 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Probably not, but as they said, it's not likely that higher elements have stable configurations.
Note: I think there's around 117 or so elements now.
2006-09-14 12:51:48 · answer #3 · answered by dennismeng90 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It contains all known elements. There is the possibility that man will be discover other elements in our space search and it's also possible that we may be able to create new elements.
2006-09-14 11:33:03 · answer #4 · answered by Chris J 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
nope ... if your periodic table is 5 years old, it is out of date. New stuff being added as it is created. Fun, interactive, link to table below.
2006-09-14 11:35:50 · answer #5 · answered by lollipop 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋