Using the advanced GALILEO array coupled to the 4π Si-top EUCLIDES, the researchers performed deep spectroscopic analyzes to track and identify the reactions. The gamma-gamma coincidence method was crucial in isolating specific reaction channels, allowing the team to determine the behavior of nuclei under different conditions with high precision. (https://doi.org/10.1007/s41365-024-01462-w). Credit: Zhang, Gaolong
Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the transfer of neutrons in weakly bound nuclei. The experiment, carried out at the Legnaro National Laboratory, focused on the single-neutron stripping process in reactions involving lithium-6 and bismuth-209. The work was published in the journal Nuclear Science and Technology.
The joint research effort has shown that the one-neutron stripping process gives results comparable to those of full fusion reactions, especially in the energy regions near the nuclear barriers. Contrary to previous expectations, the results show that one-neutron transfer plays a dominant role at lower energies, overpowering the production of fusion reactions.
This research builds on decades of investigations into how weakly bound nuclei like lithium-6 interact with heavier nuclei. Lithium-6 is known for its delicate structure that makes it prone to disintegration and involvement in complex reaction pathways. The study has confirmed that even though the energy is reduced, the impact of these reactions remains significant, providing new data on how nuclear interactions occur under different conditions.
Using the advanced GALILEO array coupled to the 4π Si-top EUCLIDES, the researchers performed deep spectroscopic analyzes to track and identify the reactions. The gamma-gamma coincidence method was crucial in isolating specific reaction channels, allowing the team to determine the behavior of nuclei under different conditions with high precision.
The research group collaborates with international research institutes such as Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen University, Universita di Padova and Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro. The Advanced Gamma Detection Group and the Charged Particle Detection Group are dedicated to conducting research on nuclear reactions and nuclear structures involving weakly bound stable nuclei at large-scale scientific facilities such as the Legnaro National Laboratory (LNL). in Italy and the China Atomic Energy Institute, promoting the development of relevant theoretical models as well as the rapid improvement of experimental techniques and measurements. (https://doi.org/10.1007/s41365-024-01462-w). Credit: Zhang, Gaolong
Improved nuclear application strategies
“By better understanding the behavior of nuclei under these conditions, we can improve our approaches to nuclear power generation and radiation therapy,” said J. Lubian, corresponding author of the study. This research paves the way to potential applications in medical physics and energy research, where accurate knowledge of nuclear processes is essential.
The single-neutron stripping process underscores the complex and nuanced nature of nuclear reactions, providing a cornerstone for future scientific advances in nuclear science and technology.
More information:
Gao-Long Zhang et al, One-neutron stripping process in 209Bi(6Li, 5Li)210The reaction of the reaction bi*, Nuclear Science and Technology (2024). DOI: 10.1007/s41365-024-01462-w
Provided by Nuclear Science and Technology
citation: Key mechanism in nuclear reaction dynamics promises breakthroughs in nuclear physics (2024, June 21) retrieved June 22, 2024 from https://phys.org/news/2024-06-key-mechanism-nuclear-reaction-dynamics.html
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