Artificial Transmutation
| Formula / Notation | e.g., ¹⁴₇N + ⁴₂He → ¹⁷₈O + ¹₁H (Rutherford, 1919) |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Nuclear transmutation, induced transmutation, artificial nuclear reaction |
What is Artificial Transmutation?
Artificial transmutation is the conversion of one element into another by bombarding atomic nuclei with high-energy particles such as protons, neutrons, or alpha particles, using particle accelerators or nuclear reactors. The first artificial transmutation was achieved by Rutherford in 1919 when he converted nitrogen-14 into oxygen-17 by alpha bombardment.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Nuclear transmutation, induced transmutation, artificial nuclear reaction
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Artificial transmutation is the conversion of one element into another by bombarding atomic nuclei with high-energy particles such as protons, neutrons, or alpha particles, using particle accelerators or nuclear reactors. The first artificial transmutation was achieved by Rutherford in 1919 when he converted nitrogen-14 into oxygen-17 by alpha bombardment.
Artificial transmutation is used to produce radioisotopes for medical imaging (e.g., ⁹⁹mTc for PET/SPECT scans), to synthesise transuranic elements (plutonium, curium, etc.), to create neutron-rich isotopes for research, and to generate fissile materials for nuclear reactors.
All artificial transmutation work requires strict radiation protection protocols, including shielded facilities, dosimetry monitoring, and adherence to national nuclear regulatory guidelines. Produced radioisotopes may emit penetrating gamma and beta radiation requiring lead or concrete shielding.
The formula or notation for Artificial Transmutation is: e.g., ¹⁴₇N + ⁴₂He → ¹⁷₈O + ¹₁H (Rutherford, 1919)