Researchers have determined that the nuclei of neptunium and fermium take the shape of rugby balls using a new laser-based analysis method detailed in a University of Gothenburg doctoral thesis. The spectroscopic technique overcomes longstanding challenges in studying unstable actinide elements that only exist in extremely small quantities for short periods, according to Mitzi Urquiza, a doctoral student at the University of Gothenburg and HÜBNER Photonics.
Pulsed Laser Spectroscopy Reveals Actinide Nuclei Shapes
Actinide nuclei have yielded their shapes to a new spectroscopic technique developed to probe these notoriously difficult elements, revealing that neptunium and fermium possess elongated, rugby ball-like forms. Only four of the fourteen actinide elements are naturally occurring, leaving the remaining ten to require accelerator production and resulting in extremely limited sample sizes for study, based on research findings.
The newly developed method overcomes longstanding research challenges by achieving wavelengths and colors conventional laser systems cannot reliably produce with sufficient intensity and precision. Researchers directed laser pulses at the atoms and observed subtle energy shifts in absorbed wavelengths, revealing crucial information about the size and shape of the atomic nuclei, as described by Urquiza.
Practical Implications for Nuclear Waste and Cancer Care
Detailed mapping of nuclear shapes offers more than academic value; the resulting data will refine theoretical models of atomic nuclei and aid the identification of new elements and isotopes. A deeper understanding of neptunium’s properties could contribute to advancements in nuclear waste reduction and the production of radioisotopes for cancer treatment, demonstrating practical applications of fundamental nuclear physics research, according to the research team.
Did you know? Out of the fourteen actinide elements, only four occur naturally. The remaining ten must be produced using accelerators, creating severe sample limitations for laboratory analysis.
The analysis required measurements across multiple European facilities, highlighting the complexity of the undertaking and the ongoing need for specialized equipment to study short-lived actinide isotopes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What shape are the nuclei of neptunium and fermium?
According to researchers at the University of Gothenburg, the nuclei of neptunium and fermium are shaped like rugby balls.
Why are actinide elements difficult to study?
Actinide elements are unstable, exist in extremely small quantities for short periods, and ten of the fourteen elements require accelerator production, limiting available sample sizes.
How does the new laser-based analysis method work?
Researchers direct laser pulses at the atoms using a pulsed laser and optical parametric oscillator to achieve specific wavelengths, then observe subtle energy shifts in absorbed wavelengths to map nuclear size and shape.
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