In a groundbreaking experiment, physicists at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider (LHC) have achieved a feat long sought by alchemists: transmuting lead into gold. This modern-day alchemy occurred during high-energy collisions of lead ions, resulting in the creation of gold nuclei, albeit for a fleeting moment.
The Experiment: From Lead to Gold
Between 2015 and 2018, researchers at the LHC conducted experiments involving ultra-peripheral collisions of lead-208 nuclei. These near-miss interactions generated intense electromagnetic fields, leading to the emission of high-energy photons. When these photons interacted with lead nuclei, they caused the ejection of three protons, effectively transforming lead (atomic number 82) into gold (atomic number 79).
The ALICE (A Large Ion Collider Experiment) detector played a crucial role in identifying these rare transmutation events. In total, approximately 86 billion gold nuclei were produced during this period.
The Fleeting Nature of the Gold
Despite the successful transmutation, the amount of gold produced was minuscule—about 29 trillionths of a gram. Moreover, these gold nuclei were highly unstable, disintegrating within microseconds upon collision with the beam pipe. This ephemeral existence underscores the experiment’s scientific significance rather than any practical application.
Scientific Significance
This experiment provides valuable insights into nuclear physics, particularly the process of electromagnetic dissociation. Understanding how photons influence atomic nuclei can enhance the stability of particle beams in accelerators and inform future research in nuclear transmutation.
Historical Context: Alchemy to Modern Physics
The quest to turn base metals into gold, known as chrysopoeia, was a central goal of medieval alchemy. While alchemists lacked the scientific knowledge to achieve this, their endeavors laid the groundwork for modern chemistry and physics. This experiment at CERN symbolizes the realization of an ancient dream through contemporary science. The Times
Conclusion
While the practical implications of this experiment are limited, the successful transmutation of lead into gold at CERN represents a significant milestone in nuclear physics. It exemplifies how modern science can achieve feats once deemed impossible, bridging the gap between ancient aspirations and contemporary understanding.
