4 ms·

Very interesting. Would it be correct to say that if true this could lead to an earlier end of the periodic table[0] than had been previously predicted? [0] h

• time-of-flight 8y ago
  Yes, one could phrase it that way... but keep in mind that all these theoretical models suggesting an "end to the table" make huge assumptions that are not well-grounded in experimental results. We don't even know where the neutron dripline is for light systems (Z=12), much less the high end of the table (Z=100+). The periodic table is only a useful model (and it is very useful) for nuclear systems acting as a zero-temperature Fermi gas (e.g., nuclei here on Earth). At extremes of temperature and pressure (neutron star merger, say), the idea of a discrete periodic table loses meaning.