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Ununennium facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Ununennium, also known as element 119, is a chemical element. Its symbol on the periodic table is Uue. Ununennium and Uue are temporary names. They were given by the IUPAC until a permanent name is chosen. Ununennium is the element with the smallest atomic number that scientists have not yet made. We don't know much about Ununennium's qualities, but scientists have made many predictions. They think all its isotopes will be radioactive. It might also be an alkali metal.

What Scientists Predict About Ununennium

Scientists predict many things about Ununennium. Its place on the periodic table suggests it might be similar to lighter elements. These include lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, caesium, and francium. However, some of its properties might be different from what is expected. For example, Ununennium might be less reactive than caesium and francium. It could behave more like potassium or rubidium.

Predicted Properties

Scientists believe all isotopes of Ununennium will be radioactive. This means they will give off energy as they break down. It is also predicted to be an alkali metal. Alkali metals are a group of elements that are very reactive. They often react strongly with water.

Attempts to Create Element 119

Many teams have tried to create Ununennium. American, German, and Russian scientists have all made attempts. So far, none of these attempts have worked. Japanese and Russian teams planned to work on creating it in 2019 and 2020. Making new, heavy elements is very difficult. It needs special equipment and a lot of time.

Why Create New Elements?

Scientists try to create new elements to learn more about the universe. They want to understand how matter works. Creating new elements helps us test our ideas about physics and chemistry. As of 2017, Ununennium's only use will probably be for research purposes. It is unlikely to have everyday uses.

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Ununennio para niños

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