Rutherfordium (Rf): what kind of element is it?

In short

The first to change a nucleus

In 1919, Rutherford found that shining alpha rays on nitrogen produced nuclei of oxygen and hydrogen. It was the first example of changing an atomic nucleus by human hands.

The discovery of rutherfordium was reported in 1969 and 1971, and credit went to both the United States and the former Soviet Union. Its name was decided in 1997.

In a 1994 proposal, the name for element 104 was “dubnium.” In 1997 today’s name was decided, and “dubnium” became the name of element 105.

Where it sits on the table

Rutherfordium is in the seventh row of Group 4, at the bottom of the column with titanium, zirconium and hafnium.

Elements with an atomic number of 104 or more are called “superheavy elements.” They are also called “transactinide elements.”

Think about it

• Q1Why do you think it took so many years to decide the names of elements?
• Q2Rutherfordium was also made by smashing carbon (number 6) into californium (number 98). What is 98 + 6?
• Q3Can you name the Group 4 elements from the top?

There is no single right answer. Talking it over with someone at home is a good way to learn.