ätium

ätium is a hypothetical element with the symbol Ä and atomic number 137. It is not a naturally occurring element and has not been synthesized or observed. The concept of ätium arises from theoretical considerations in physics, particularly related to the fine-structure constant, often denoted by the Greek letter alpha ($\alpha$). The value of $\alpha$ is approximately 1/137.

In some speculative theories, a strong interaction between fundamental particles could theoretically lead to the creation of elements with atomic numbers that are inverse multiples of the fine-structure constant. If $\alpha$ were precisely 1/137, then an element with atomic number 137 could be hypothesized. However, the measured value of the fine-structure constant is not exactly 1/137, and it is considered a dimensionless physical constant.

The idea of element 137 is therefore more of a theoretical curiosity or a thought experiment within the realm of advanced physics rather than a candidate for a real chemical element. The creation of elements with such high atomic numbers would also present immense challenges due to the extreme instability expected from their nuclei. Current scientific understanding does not support the existence or synthesis of ätium.