Why are higher magic numbers not accurately predicted?

In summary, higher magic numbers are not accurately predicted because many body problems are difficult to compute and current models do not take into account the effects of spin-orbit coupling on the central potential, resulting in inaccurate predictions.
  • #1
says
594
12
Why are higher magic numbers not accurately predicted if nuclear potential is assumed to be a central potential?

Nuclei with magic numbers have a higher stability that those without. If we think of the nuclear potential as a central potential though these magic numbers aren't predicted accurately. Why?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
(From someone who knows very little.) Many body problems are very hard to compute accurately, so magic number prediction is based on simplifying models.
 
  • #3
says said:
Why are higher magic numbers not accurately predicted

Why do you think they are not?
 
  • Like
Likes ohwilleke
  • #4
spin-orbit coupling is not taken into account with a central potential. When spin is aligned with angular momentum the potential becomes more negative. When spin and angular momentum are anti-aligned the system's energy is higher.
 

Related to Why are higher magic numbers not accurately predicted?

1. Why do higher magic numbers in atomic nuclei not follow the expected pattern?

The expected pattern of magic numbers in atomic nuclei follows the shell model, which predicts that certain numbers of protons or neutrons will result in more stable and "magic" nuclei. However, as the number of nucleons (protons and neutrons) increases, the accuracy of the predictions decreases. This is due to the complex interactions and dynamics of the nucleons within the nucleus, which cannot be fully captured by the shell model.

2. What factors affect the accuracy of predicting higher magic numbers?

There are several factors that can affect the accuracy of predicting higher magic numbers, including the nuclear forces between nucleons, the shape and structure of the nucleus, and the presence of additional nucleons beyond the magic number. Additionally, the shell model itself has limitations in its ability to accurately predict the behavior of larger nuclei.

3. How do experimental techniques contribute to understanding higher magic numbers?

Experimental techniques, such as nuclear spectroscopy and particle accelerators, allow scientists to observe and study the properties and behavior of larger nuclei. This data can then be used to refine and improve theoretical models, including the shell model, to better understand and predict higher magic numbers.

4. Are there any exceptions to the predicted magic numbers in atomic nuclei?

Yes, there are exceptions to the predicted magic numbers in atomic nuclei. This is due to the fact that the shell model is a simplified representation of the complex interactions within the nucleus, and there may be other factors at play that can affect the stability of a particular nucleus. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, the presence of additional nucleons can disrupt the expected pattern of magic numbers.

5. How do the predictions for higher magic numbers impact other areas of research?

The study of higher magic numbers and the behavior of larger nuclei has implications for various fields, including nuclear physics, astrophysics, and materials science. Understanding the stability and properties of these nuclei can help in the development of new technologies, such as nuclear energy and medical treatments, and can also shed light on the formation and evolution of elements in the universe.

Similar threads

B Iron, Nuclear Stability and Nuclear Energy
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
24
Views
2K
I Shell Model: Filling Up Nuclei
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
2
Views
1K
I Distribution of nucleons in the nuclei
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
4
Views
2K
Magic Numbers in the Nucleus: Fact vs. Fiction
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
3
Views
2K
B Why does the nucleus become unstable as the number of nucleons increases?
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
12
Views
3K
B Radioactive decay, Stability and Halflife
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
2
Replies
44
Views
4K
I Understanding Nuclear Rotation: Quantum Numbers and Wavefunctions
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
1
Views
1K
I Neutrino-Nucleus Interactions and Half-Life Constraints
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
5
Views
1K
I Angular momentum of an Odd-Odd nucleus (in its ground state)
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
2
Views
2K
B Why Does Carbon-14 Become Unstable?
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
11
Views
5K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top