GPK: Exploring the heaviest elements at the end of the Periodic Table
Tuesday, 27th of May, 16.00
(16.00 Coffee & Cake in the foyer, 16.30 talk & discussion)
Lecture Hall III
Where does the Periodic Table end, and what is the heaviest nucleus that can exist? Is there an „Island of Stability“ for superheavy elements? Answering these fundamental questions is central to superheavy element research. These elements do not occur naturally on Earth and can only be synthesized in small quantities using particle accelerators. For over 50 years, research at the GSI in Darmstadt has significantly expanded our understanding of these elusive species, leading to the discovery of six new elements. The GSI conducts a comprehensive research program that addresses every aspect of superheavy elements, using a wide range of specialized setups and techniques. Recently, several pioneering experiments have provided crucial insights into the nuclear shell structure of the heaviest nuclei, the reason for their very existence.
In his presentation, Michael Block will provide an overview of the status of the field and present highlights from recent measurement campaigns.