Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: Lawrencium synthesized at UC Berkeley's lab

2/14/2026

50 11

Summary

Story summary

On February 14, 1961, scientists at the Lawrence Radiation Laboratory in Berkeley, California, successfully synthesized Lawrencium, a radioactive synthetic element with atomic number 103. This achievement marked a significant milestone in nuclear chemistry, showcasing human ability to create elements that do not occur naturally on Earth through advanced manipulation of atomic particles.

1 of 1

Story summary

On February 14, 1961, scientists at the Lawrence Radiation Laboratory in Berkeley, California, successfully synthesized Lawrencium, a radioactive synthetic element with atomic number 103. This achievement marked a significant milestone in nuclear chemistry, showcasing human ability to create elements that do not occur naturally on Earth through advanced manipulation of atomic particles.