Nuclear Isomers: A Primer

Nuclear isomers are the long-lived excited states of nuclei that constitute the meta-stable landscape of nuclei. They have been growing in interest due to expanding experimental capabilities, potential energy storage devices, nuclear clocks, and the possible discovery of a gamma ray laser. Isomers are classified into four classes: spin isomers, shape isomers, fission isomers, and K-isomers. Seniority isomers are often clubbed with the spin isomers. The range of half-lives covered by isomers varies from billions of years to nano-seconds and even small. Nuclear shapes play an important role in many types of isomers, and new developments in seniority and generalized seniority isomers are discussed. The decay properties of isomers in deformed nuclei are also discussed, with open questions posed for possible new experiments and better understanding.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 12 July 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Nuclear isomers are the long-lived excited states of nuclei, constituting the meta-stable landscape of these atomic entities. The first isomer was likely identified as early as 1921, and since then, the number of isomers has been steadily growing, with a recent surge in interest. This growth is driven by advancements in experimental capabilities, expanding the time scale over which isomers can be observed and studied. Isomers are also being recognized as potential energy storage devices and nuclear clocks, with a wide range of applications. The potential discovery of a gamma-ray laser has further fueled research in this field.

Isomers now cover the full nuclear landscape, exhibiting structural peculiarities specific to different regions of the nuclear chart. Exploring these isomers provides a novel insight into the nuclear structure and properties of these regions. The classification of isomers is based on various factors, including spin isomers, shape isomers, fission isomers, and K-isomers. Seniority isomers, often associated with spin isomers, are also discussed. Numerous examples are considered to showcase the vast variety of isomers, with half-lives ranging from billions of years to nano-seconds and even smaller.

The underlying causes of the long lives of excited nuclear states are complex and multifaceted. Angular momentum couplings, nuclear shapes, pairing, and other factors contribute to this variation. Understanding the intricate interplay between these factors is a fascinating endeavor that has led to significant advancements in our understanding of nuclear physics.

In conclusion, nuclear isomers are a fascinating area of research that has grown in importance in recent years. With advancements in experimental capabilities and the recognition of their potential applications, we can expect to see continued growth and innovation in this field. The study of isomers provides a unique insight into the nuclear structure and properties of different regions of the nuclear chart, and has the potential to unlock new technologies and applications.

Weight: 256g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030786779
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021