<P> The quest for new elements is usually described using atomic numbers . As of 2010 , all elements with atomic numbers 1 to 118 have been observed . Synthesis of new elements is accomplished by bombarding target atoms of heavy elements with ions , such that the sum of the atomic numbers of the target and ion elements equals the atomic number of the element being created . In general , the half - life becomes shorter as atomic number increases , though an `` island of stability '' may exist for undiscovered isotopes with certain numbers of protons and neutrons . </P>
<P> The quest for new elements is usually described using atomic numbers . As of 2010 , all elements with atomic numbers 1 to 118 have been observed . Synthesis of new elements is accomplished by bombarding target atoms of heavy elements with ions , such that the sum of the atomic numbers of the target and ion elements equals the atomic number of the element being created . In general , the half - life becomes shorter as atomic number increases , though an `` island of stability '' may exist for undiscovered isotopes with certain numbers of protons and neutrons . </P>
how does the concept of atomic number led to the synthesis of new elements in the laboratory
how does the concept of atomic number led to the synthesis of new elements in the laboratory
bombarding target atoms of heavy elements with ions
bombarding target atoms of heavy elements with ions