Abstract: The Periodic Table is a cornerstone of chemistry, but its validity is challenged by the extreme properties of superheavy elements (SHEs, Z ≥ 104) and actinides (Z > 88). Relativistic effects, stemming from their large nuclear masses, significantly alter their chemical behaviors, potentially limiting the predictive power of the Periodic Table. Recent breakthroughs have provided insights into the chemistry of these elements, including the direct identification of molecular species formed by actinium (Ac, Z = 89) and nobelium (No, Z = 102) ions.

Using a cutting-edge, atom-at-a-time technique at the 88-Inch Cyclotron Facility at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, we have synthesized and characterized molecular species produced by these ions in reactions with H2O and N2. Our findings underscore the importance of direct identification in SHE chemistry experiments and offer new perspectives on the chemical properties of these enigmatic elements.

This presentation will explore the current state of superheavy element chemistry research, highlighting recent advances and future directions for unraveling the mysteries of SHE chemistry. By pushing the boundaries of our understanding, we aim to shed light on the chemical behaviors of these extraordinary elements and challenge our current understanding of the Periodic Table.

Bio: Jennifer Pore leads an innovative gas phase chemistry program at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, where she investigates the fundamental properties of superheavy elements, examining them one atom at a time. A San Francisco native, she earned her Bachelor of Science at Mills College, a women's college in Oakland, CA. She then moved to Canada to complete her Master’s and Ph.D. in nuclear science before returning to California and joining the Lawrence Berkeley team. Her primary research interest focuses on probing the chemical properties of superheavy elements to explore whether the periodic table should be reorganized. Jennifer has recently received a DOE Early Career Award to further investigate the chemistry of superheavy elements.