The enigmatic numerical values in the realm of nuclear physics, known as 'magic numbers', carry immense power due to their significant influence on nuclear stability and structure.
In the realm of atomic physics, the concept of magic numbers has been proposed to explain the bizarre observations of certain nuclei, known as magic nuclei. These special nuclei exhibit notably higher binding energy and stability due to shell closure effects in the nuclear shell model, a theory that draws parallels with the electronic shells used to explain the chemical behavior of atoms.
The magic numbers, typically 2, 8, 20, 28, 50, 82, and 126, correspond to specific numbers of nucleons (protons or neutrons) that fill nuclear shells, leading to especially stable atomic nuclei. For instance, Oxygen-16, with 8 protons and 8 neutrons, and Calcium-40, with 20 protons and 20 neutrons, are both magic nuclei.
One such magic element is Lead, specifically Lead-208, with 82 protons and 126 neutrons, which is the heaviest stable element known. Interestingly, Tin-100, the heaviest doubly magic nucleus, has a half-life of just 1.2 seconds.
Doubly magic systems, like Lead-208, have a spherical distribution of matter and charge, whereas most nuclei are deformed and rotate. The stability of these systems is thought to be due to the strong force being higher than expected per particle in completed shells. However, whether this magic stability boost will be enough to allow scientists to add an eighth row to the periodic table remains an open question.
On the other hand, some isotopes, such as Lead-208 and Calcium-40, have been around since Earth first formed and are known as primordial isotopes. Other isotopes, like Oganesson-294 and Tennessine-294, have fleeting half-lives of just 0.89 and 0.80 milliseconds, respectively, and are not stable.
The idea of atoms ever touching is not supported by current scientific understanding, as they are mostly empty space. However, the energy that electrons use to spin around an atom's nucleus is not explicitly mentioned in the text.
Helium nuclei, also known as alpha particles, are spontaneously emitted from heavier, unstable atoms as they undergo nuclear decay. The nuclear shell model suggests that protons and neutrons sit in shells, similar to electrons in an atom.
The quest to synthesize Unbihexium, the next magic element after Lead, continues, as it has never been successfully produced. The understanding of magic numbers and the nuclear shell model is expected to play a crucial role in this endeavour.
