Investigating Atoms That Do Not Exist - The Case with Francium

Explore the fascinating world of francium - the rarest naturally occurring element on Earth - in this 57-minute research talk from the Raman Research Institute. Delve into the unique challenges of studying an element that exists for mere minutes, with only a few grams present on Earth at any given time. Learn about the innovative experimental techniques used to investigate this highly unstable alkali metal, its radioactive properties, and its significance in atomic physics research. Gain insights into how scientists work with atoms that are so scarce they practically "do not exist" and understand the implications of this research for our broader understanding of atomic structure and behavior.