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Nobelium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nobelium

[ˈnoʊbɛliəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical element

Nobelium is a synthetic chemical element with the symbol No and atomic number 102. It is part of the actinide series and was first synthesized in 1957 by a team of scientists. Nobelium is highly radioactive and has no significant commercial applications due to its rarity and instability. Most of its isotopes have very short half-lives, making them difficult to study. Despite its limited uses, it is named in honor of Alfred Nobel, the founder of the Nobel Prizes.

Examples of usage

  • Nobelium was discovered in a laboratory.
  • The chemical properties of nobelium are still being researched.
  • Nobelium isotopes are used in scientific experiments.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • This element is classified as a transactinide element, meaning it comes after actinium in the periodic table.
  • Nobelium is highly radioactive, with its most stable isotope having a half-life of about 58 minutes.
  • Due to its instability, nobelium doesn't have many practical applications outside of research.

History

  • Nobelium was a significant addition to the periodic table, marking advancements in nuclear chemistry.
  • The element’s discovery was part of the race to create new elements during the mid-20th century, particularly in nuclear physics.
  • Disputes arose over the credit for its discovery, leading to multiple naming proposals across different research institutions.

Cultural Impact

  • The Nobel Prize has greatly influenced how society values achievements in science, literature, and peace.
  • Nobelium, through its name, connects modern science to Alfred Nobel’s legacy of philanthropy and recognition of excellence.
  • The quest for new elements like nobelium reflects humanity’s endeavor to understand the foundations of the universe.

Education

  • Studying elements like nobelium enhances understanding of atomic structure and modern chemistry.
  • Nobelium's properties are often explored in advanced chemistry courses, underscoring its relevance in nuclear research.
  • Discussions around nobelium in classrooms can also promote interest in the ethical implications of scientific discovery.

Origin of 'nobelium'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'nobelium' comes from Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite and the founder of the Nobel Prizes.
  • The element’s symbol, 'No', reflects both its name and its position on the periodic table.
  • Nobelium was first discovered in 1957 by a team at the University of California, Berkeley.

The name Nobelium was derived from Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite and the founder of the Nobel Prizes. The element was first identified by a team at the University of California, Berkeley, in 1957. They produced nobelium by bombarding curium with neutrons, leading to the formation of the element. The recognition of nobelium in the periodic table highlights both the advancements in nuclear chemistry and the legacy of Nobel in promoting scientific excellence. The element's name reflects a growing appreciation of the contributions of individuals to the field of science, particularly in the context of research related to radioactive elements.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,559, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.