How do scientists perform an artificial transmutation?

1 Answer
Aug 3, 2017

An artificial transmutation is the creation of another element from an existing element using a device like a cyclotron to accelerate particles to collide with the original existing element.

Explanation:

A particular element is universally defined by the number of protons present in its nucleus. When the number of protons present is altered by artificial (and also natural) means, the original element becomes another element.

If an element is bombarded by extremely accelerated particles inside a particle accelerator, the element may be transmuted into another element. The particles used may be neutrons, protons, or #alpha-#particles.

There is more information, examples, and solved problems here:
http://www.transtutors.com/chemistry-homework-help/nuclear-chemistry/artificial-transmutation.aspx