Guest Thinkers — November 18, 2011

‘Tis Here! ‘Tis Gone! Dr. Michio Kaku on the Search for Heavy Elements

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

Every Wednesday, Michio Kaku will be answering reader questions about physics and futuristic science. If you have a question for Dr. Kaku, just post it in the comments section below and check back on Wednesdays to see if he answers it.

Today, Dr. Kaku addresses a question posed by Atharv Joshi: Considering elements 114 and 116, Dr. Kaku, do you believe that the elusive “Feynmanium” can ever be produced artificially? (Note: also known as Untriseptium, “Feynmanium” is a hypothetical chemical element which has not been observed to occur naturally, nor has it yet been synthesised. Due to drip instabilities, it is not known if this element is physically possible.)

Watch Dr. Kaku’s response here:

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

A black and white image of a bunch of spheres, symbolizing the multiverse concept discussed by scientists.

Starts With A Bang

How logic and reasoning can fail as scientific tools

In logic, ‘reductio ad absurdum’ shows how flawed arguments fall apart. Our absurd Universe, however, often defies our intuitive reasoning.

13.8

10 of the most mystifying open questions in science

From how life emerged on Earth to why we dream, these unanswered questions continue to perplex scientists.

Starts With A Bang

Ask Ethan: Could Earth be the only planet with intelligent life?

With such a vast Universe and raw ingredients that seem to be everywhere, could it really be possible that humanity is truly alone?

A man in a suit is pointing his finger at a yellow background, referencing string theory.

Einstein failed to solve the Universe. Here’s what it would take to succeed. | Michio Kaku

If Einstein couldn’t solve the theory of everything, could anyone? Physicist Michio Kaku explains what it would take.

▸

6 min

—

with

Michio Kaku

Starts With A Bang

Could dark matter be made of gravitons?

Dark matter hasn’t been directly detected, but some form of invisible matter is clearly gravitating. Could the graviton hold the answer?

Up Next

Guest Thinkers

Start a Business in Five Days

Get your company going in just 54 hours. That’s what many businesses have accomplished by condensing their ideas and pitching to local entrepreneurs and investors.