New Reactions May Unlock Long-Lasting Superheavy Nuclei with Distinct Properties

New Reactions May Unlock Long-Lasting Superheavy Nuclei with Distinct Properties
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Sep 11, 2024

A group of researchers has made critical advancements in the quest to form long-lived superheavy nuclei. These "double magic" nuclei, featuring specific numbers of protons and neutrons that form an unusually stable structure, exhibit high resistance to decay. The findings could enhance the understanding of atomic forces and potentially lead to the creation of materials with unprecedented properties. This work brings scientists closer to the so-called "Island of Stability," a hypothesized area of the nuclear chart where certain nuclei could exist for significantly longer than those currently produced.

The study, led by Professor Feng-Shou Zhang, has identified several promising reactions between various elements that could be utilized to generate double magic nuclei. One particularly significant discovery involves a reaction between a special radioactive calcium isotope and a plutonium target, which could yield the double magic nuclei 298Fl. Additionally, another candidate, 304120, could be created by combining vanadium and berkelium, although this reaction is currently considered less feasible.

Pushing the Boundaries of Nuclear Science
The prospect of creating these superheavy nuclei is exciting, as they could reveal new aspects of atomic structure and facilitate the development of innovative materials. If these nuclei can be produced and maintain stability, they may exhibit properties with potential applications across multiple scientific domains.

To drive these discoveries, the team employed advanced theoretical models tailored to study heavy ion collisions. By meticulously selecting projectile-target combinations, the scientists have charted a roadmap for future experimental endeavors that could bring these goals within reach.

Challenges and Future Outlook

While progress has been substantial, challenges remain, such as increasing the efficiency of these nuclear reactions. Nevertheless, this research marks a pivotal step toward exploring the "Island of Stability" and the opportunities it may present. In addition to advancing nuclear physics, the work opens the door for future innovations with broad scientific and technological implications.

This research was conducted in partnership with Beijing Normal University, Beijing Academy of Science and Technology, Guangxi University, and the National Laboratory of Heavy Ion Accelerator of Lanzhou.

Research Report:Possibility of reaching the predicted center of the "island of stability" via the radioactive beam-induced fusion reactions