In the realm of nuclear physics, a team of researchers from the University of Toulouse III – Paul Sabatier, including G. Zietek, N. Pillet, M. Anguiano, P. Carpentier, N. Dubray, R. N. Bernard, G. Blanchon, and D. Regnier, has been delving into the intricacies of nuclear interactions. Their work, published in the journal Physical Review C, focuses on enhancing the understanding and application of Energy Density Functionals (EDFs), which are crucial for studying atomic nuclei, including those of superheavy elements.
Energy Density Functionals are mathematical models that describe the energy of a nucleus based on the density of nucleons (protons and neutrons). They are widely used in nuclear physics to predict the properties of nuclei across the entire nuclear chart. The researchers have proposed a novel approach to extend the Gogny EDF, a specific type of EDF, by incorporating finite-range spin-orbit and tensor terms. These terms are essential for accurately describing the interactions between nucleons.
The spin-orbit term accounts for the interaction between a nucleon’s spin and its orbital motion, while the tensor term describes the interaction between the spins of two nucleons and their relative positions. By including these terms with finite ranges, the researchers aim to improve the predictive power of the Gogny EDF. The original fitting protocol of the Gogny interaction has been adapted to include these new terms, with additional constraints and filters based on relevant experimental data.
The study discusses the impact of these modifications on various nuclear properties, including those of nuclear matter, spectroscopic properties, and fission properties. The researchers highlight that introducing all spin and isospin exchanges with finite-range terms can significantly enhance the accuracy of EDFs. This improvement is particularly important for the energy sector, as a deeper understanding of nuclear interactions can lead to advancements in nuclear energy production, waste management, and safety.
In practical terms, the enhanced Gogny EDF can provide more accurate predictions of nuclear reactions, which are crucial for designing and optimizing nuclear reactors. It can also improve the modeling of nuclear fission and fusion processes, which are essential for developing new energy sources and understanding the behavior of nuclear materials. Furthermore, the study’s findings can contribute to the development of advanced nuclear fuels and the safe disposal of nuclear waste.
In conclusion, the research conducted by the team from the University of Toulouse III – Paul Sabatier represents a significant step forward in the field of nuclear physics. By enhancing the Gogny EDF with finite-range spin-orbit and tensor terms, the researchers have provided a more accurate and comprehensive model of nuclear interactions. This advancement holds great promise for the energy sector, paving the way for innovative solutions in nuclear energy production and management.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.