Question

How to get to the atomic number 200 with these elements in use already?

Option 1: Continue adding elements until reaching 200
Option 2: Start with element 200 and work backward
Option 3: Combine elements to form new elements with higher atomic numbers
Option 4: Atomic number 200 is not achievable with current knowledge

Answer 1

Atomic number 200 is not achievable with current knowledge due to the limitations of known elements and their stability.

Step-by-step explanation:

The highest atomic number currently known is 118. Elements with higher atomic numbers from about 93 to 118 are believed to have extremely short lifespans and break apart within seconds of being formed. Scientists theorize that there may be an 'island of stability' beyond element 118 where elements with higher atomic numbers exist. At present, atomic number 200 is not achievable with current knowledge.