Abstract
THE identification of the heavy hydrogen isotope and its separation gave considerable impetus to the search for methods of bulk separation of the isotopes of other elements. Previous to this time, the experimental man of science had been content to demonstrate that displacements of normal isotope ratios could be secured by one or other method. Aston and Harkins had shown that these ratios could be changed by diffusion processes in the cases of neon and chlorine. Bron-sted and Hevesy changed slightly the atomic weight of mercury by distillation methods. It was the separation of the hydrogen isotopes and the demonstration of their extraordinary utility in many problems of chemical, physical and biological interest that re-awakened the interest in more complete separations of other isotopic elements. The simultaneous advances in the study of the nucleus, by bombardment with swift-moving primary particles, enhanced the desire for individual isotopic species of the elements, at the same time that it provided an alternative tool for research in the form of artificially produced radioactive elements.
This is a preview of subscription content, access via your institution
Access options
Subscribe to this journal
Receive 51 print issues and online access
$199.00 per year
only $3.90 per issue
Buy this article
- Purchase on Springer Link
- Instant access to full article PDF
Prices may be subject to local taxes which are calculated during checkout
Similar content being viewed by others
References
Naturwiss., 26, 546 (1938).
Naturwiss., 27, 148 (1939).
Naturwiss., 27, 260 (1939).
Phys. Rev., 55A, 590 (1939); Amer. Chem. Soc. Abstracts, Baltimore Meeting, April 1939.
Naturwiss., 27, 230 (1939).
Phys. Rev., in the press.
Naturwiss., 27, 110 (1939).
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
TAYLOR, H. New Prospects in Isotope Separation. Nature 144, 8–9 (1939). https://doi.org/10.1038/144008a0
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/144008a0
Comments
By submitting a comment you agree to abide by our Terms and Community Guidelines. If you find something abusive or that does not comply with our terms or guidelines please flag it as inappropriate.