# Yuri Oganessian

> Russian nuclear physicist

**Wikidata**: [Q1144326](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1144326)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yuri_Oganessian)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/yuri-oganessian

## Summary
Yuri Oganessian is a Russian nuclear physicist renowned for his pioneering work in the synthesis of superheavy elements. Born in the Soviet Union, he has significantly advanced the field of nuclear physics through the discovery of new elements, notably oganesson, named in his honor. His research has reshaped the understanding of the periodic table's upper limits.

## Biography
- **Born**: April 14, 1933
- **Nationality**: Russian, Soviet (formerly)
- **Education**: 
- **Known for**: Synthesis of superheavy elements, discovery of oganesson
- **Employer(s)**: Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, National Research Nuclear University
- **Field(s)**: Nuclear physics, transuranium elements

## Contributions
- **Discovery of Oganesson (Og)**: Led the team that synthesized element 118, oganesson, at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research in 2002, recognized by IUPAC in 2016.
- **Synthesis of Superheavy Elements**: Contributed to the creation of elements 113-118, expanding the periodic table and challenging theoretical models of nuclear stability.
- **Advancements in Nuclear Fusion Techniques**: Developed methods for cold fusion reactions using calcium-48 projectiles, enabling the synthesis of new isotopes.
- **Leadership in International Collaborations**: Spearheaded multinational research efforts at the Flerov Laboratory of Nuclear Reactions, fostering global scientific cooperation.

## FAQs
**What is Yuri Oganessian's most notable scientific achievement?**  
He synthesized oganesson (element 118), the heaviest confirmed element, which was named in his honor in 2016.

**Where has Yuri Oganessian conducted his research?**  
Primarily at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research in Dubna, Russia, and the National Research Nuclear University.

**What awards has Yuri Oganessian received?**  
He has been honored with the Lise Meitner Prize, USSR State Prize, Order of Honour, and the Lomonosov Gold Medal, among others.

**How has Yuri Oganessian influenced nuclear physics?**  
His work on superheavy elements has redefined the boundaries of the periodic table, influencing theoretical models of nuclear structure and stability.

## Why They Matter
Yuri Oganessian's groundbreaking synthesis of superheavy elements has fundamentally altered the landscape of nuclear physics. By pushing the limits of atomic numbers, his research has prompted revisions to the periodic table and deepened understanding of nuclear forces. His collaborative approach has also strengthened international scientific partnerships, ensuring continued advancements in the field. Without his contributions, the current understanding of elemental synthesis and nuclear stability would be significantly limited.

## Notable For
- **Namesake of Oganesson (Og)**: Element 118 named in recognition of his foundational role in its discovery.
- **Pioneering Cold Fusion Techniques**: Developed methodologies enabling the synthesis of elements 113-118.
- **Leadership in Global Research**: Directed multinational teams at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research.
- **Recipient of Prestigious Awards**: Including the Lomonosov Gold Medal, USSR State Prize, and Order of Honour.

## Body

### Early Life and Education
Yuri Oganessian was born on April 14, 1933, in the Soviet Union. He pursued higher education in physics, laying the groundwork for his future research in nuclear science.

### Career and Research Focus
Oganessian's career has been centered at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR) in Dubna, Russia, where he worked alongside renowned physicist Georgy Flyorov. His research has focused on the synthesis of superheavy elements through cold fusion reactions, utilizing calcium-48 projectiles to bombard heavy nuclei. This method enabled the creation of elements 113-118, with oganesson (element 118) being the pinnacle of his achievements.

### Discovery of Oganesson
In 2002, Oganessian's team successfully synthesized oganesson by fusing calcium-48 with californium-249. This discovery, confirmed by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) in 2016, marked a historic expansion of the periodic table. The element's name honors Oganessian's indispensable role in its creation.

### Collaborations and Leadership
As a leading figure at JINR's Flerov Laboratory of Nuclear Reactions, Oganessian has fostered international collaborations, bringing together scientists from Russia, the United States, and Germany. His leadership has been instrumental in maintaining JINR's reputation as a global hub for nuclear research.

### Awards and Recognition
Oganessian's contributions have garnered numerous accolades, including the Lise Meitner Prize (2006), USSR State Prize (1975), Order of Honour (Russia), and the prestigious Lomonosov Gold Medal. These honors reflect his enduring impact on nuclear physics and his stature within the scientific community.

### Legacy and Influence
Oganessian's work has not only expanded the periodic table but also challenged existing nuclear models, prompting scientists to reevaluate theories of superheavy element stability. His methodologies continue to guide research into the synthesis of new elements, ensuring his legacy as a pioneer in the field. The discovery of oganesson, in particular, symbolizes humanity's relentless pursuit of understanding the fundamental building blocks of matter.

## References

1. Armenian Soviet Encyclopedia
2. [Source](https://www.avcr.cz/cs/o-nas/oceneni/medaile-av-cr/cestna-oborova-medaile-ernsta-macha/udelene-medaile/)
3. [Большая золотая медаль РАН имени М.В. Ломоносова. Russian Academy of Sciences](http://www.ras.ru/win/db/award_dsc.asp?P=id-1.ln-ru)
4. Virtual International Authority File
5. [Source](http://www.ras.ru/win/db/show_per.asp?P=.id-615.ln-ru.dl-.pr-inf.uk-12)
6. [Source](https://www.sci.am/membersview.php?id=395&langid=1)
7. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013