Understanding Elements and Their Properties

Hank Green discusses the creation of new elements, including flerovium, livermorium, and element 117. He explains the instability of elements beyond uranium and the reasons for creating superheavy elements, such as prestige and understanding atomic structure. The concept of an 'island of stability' is introduced. The episode also covers the phenomenon of exploding whale carcasses due to gas buildup during decomposition. The episode concludes with a promotion for Audible.

What are the atomic numbers of the elements flerovium and livermorium?

• 116 and 118

• 115 and 117

• 114 and 116

• 112 and 114

Why are elements beyond uranium considered unstable?

• They have too many electrons.

• They have too many protons.

• Their nuclei lack a proper balance of neutrons and protons.

• They are too small in size.

What is one reason scientists continue to create super-heavy elements?

• To improve nuclear weapons.

• To find new sources of energy.

• To understand the structure of the atomic nucleus.

• To create new types of metals.

What is the 'island of stability' in nuclear chemistry?

• A place where elements are discovered.

• A location where nuclear tests are conducted.

• A region where elements are stable and do not decay.

• A theory about the stability of light elements.

What is the main reason whale carcasses can explode?

• They are filled with water.

• They are exposed to sunlight.

• Gases build up inside as they decompose.

• They are moved too quickly.

What gases are produced during the decomposition of a whale's viscera?

• Methane and hydrogen sulfide

• Carbon dioxide and helium

• Argon and neon

• Oxygen and nitrogen

Why do whales make particularly good 'balloons' when they decompose?

• They have a lot of blubber.

• They are very small.

• They are filled with air.

• They have a thin skin.

What is the path of least resistance for gas escaping from a decomposing whale?

• Out its fins

• Through its eyes

• Through its skin

• Out its mouth or the other end

What is the main message regarding dead whale carcasses?

• They should be moved to a lab.

• They should be studied closely.

• They should be left alone and not disturbed.

• They are safe to approach.

What is the title of the audiobook promoted at the end of the video?

• Elements and Their Discoveries

• A Tale of 7 Elements

• The Mystery of Elements

• The Science of Elements