SCIENCE JOURNAL 2018

Implications of the use of Science It has been argued that “Superheavy elements are so unstable that there is no point trying to synthesise new elements,” but multiple facts point against this claim. The consequences of this claim is explained in both social and economic factors. Firstly, further investigations into discovering new elements could possibly open up our eyes to a new future with possible medical breakthroughs. The Conversation.com says that “…some of these as yet undiscovered super heavy elements will live longer than their current counterparts, and may even have applications that we have not yet dreamt of. But the benefit of big science like this goes beyond direct impacts. By continuously reaching towards the edge of our knowledge, we often have to completely change how we think,” (The Coversation.com, 2013). This quote suggests that by working to create these super heavy elements, it will benefit our society through not only creating new technologies that could possibly prove beneficial, but it will force us to push our knowledge and test our scientific skills; and therefore could change the world of science as we know it. Mystery of Matter also commented, “It’s important because the goal of science is to keep pushing the boundaries of human knowledge, regardless of its practical value,” (Mystery of Matter, 2015). Again, backing up the opinion that these new discoveries will test us and will come with rewards. Positive economic impacts could arise from going against the claim, and in support of continuing to research the existence of super heavy elements and their benefits. Recently, benefits as a result of researching and creating the special nuclei have come in the form of knowledge and information, although it is predicted that there could be possible

technological and medical breakthroughs and improvements that the discovery of new elements could possibly bring. Science Daily suggested that, “It is difficult to anticipate what practical uses might come out of the search for new superheavy elements…However, some previously synthesized elements have yielded tremendous benefits for people. One example, element 95 -- Americium -- discovered in 1944, is used in smoke detectors and in medical and industrial radiography.” This quote suggests that although at the moment, scientists are focused discovering the elements, there is a large possibility, based on previous examples, that the superheavy elements could be put to potentially revolutionary use. Despite the building costs of superheavy element research labs being $2.5 to $6 million US dollars to being and uphold (CBC News, 2009), theories have arisen surrounding the major economic befits synthesising these elements could bring. There are also predictions that the new technology that is created along- side the new elements could bring researchers closer to the cure for major diseases and sicknesses such as cancer. This could possibly benefit the economy, save lives and free up hospitals of cancer patients. Conclusion I go against the claim and believe that there is a point behind putting time and money toward the creation and study of super heavy elements, and possibly nearer to discovering the island of stability. This will not only broaden the knowledge and skill set of scientists around the world, but could potentially create new technology and assist in the medical world.

SC J SI

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Somerset College Journal of Scientific Issues

Year 10