Laser spectroscopy helps reveal hidden nuclear properties in fermium
Researchers have successfully used laser spectroscopy to determine the nuclear shape of fermium-255 for the first time. This breakthrough provides new insights into the stability and structure of the heaviest atomic nuclei.
Why it matters
Understanding the properties of superheavy elements helps refine theoretical models of nuclear physics and the limits of atomic existence.
by Kathrin Voigt, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
edited by Swati Mestri , reviewed by Robert Egan
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:
Add as preferred source Graphical illustration of the nuclear chart and of the RISIKO mass separator used in these studies. Credit: Sebastian Raeder For the first time, researchers have determined the shape of the actinide nucleus of fermium-255 and measured its structure with high precision and resolution.
This breakthrough, published in Physical Review Letters , supports modern theoretical models and opens new possibilities for understanding the behavior of the heaviest atomic nuclei.
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