Berkelium is a synthetic element with the symbol Bk and atomic number 97. It has several isotopes, the most notable being Bk-247, which is the most stable and has a half-life of about 1,380 years. Other isotopes, such as Bk-248 and Bk-249, are less stable and have shorter half-lives, making them less common in research and applications. Isotopes of berkelium are produced in nuclear reactors or particle accelerators and are primarily used for scientific research. Due to their radioactivity, they require careful handling and storage. Berkelium isotopes contribute to the study of heavy elements and their properties in nuclear chemistry.