In the realm of nuclear physics and energy research, a team of scientists from the University of Tokyo and other institutions has developed a novel approach to understanding nuclear deformations. The researchers, Zehong Liao, K. Hagino, Long Zhu, S. Yoshida, and K. Uzawa, have created an emulator that accelerates calculations related to heavy-ion fusion reactions, providing insights into the shapes of atomic nuclei. This work, published in the journal Physical Review C, has significant implications for both fundamental nuclear physics and practical applications in the energy sector.
Heavy-ion fusion reactions occur at energies around the Coulomb barrier, a critical threshold in nuclear physics. Traditional methods for studying these reactions are computationally intensive and time-consuming. The researchers addressed this challenge by developing an emulator based on eigenvector continuation, a mathematical technique that simplifies complex calculations. This emulator allows for rapid and accurate coupled-channels calculations, which are essential for understanding the dynamics of nuclear fusion.
The team applied their emulator to the study of specific nuclear reactions involving oxygen-16 and samarium-144 and samarium-154, as well as tungsten-186. By analyzing these reactions, they demonstrated that the emulator could accurately extract deformation parameters of the target nuclei. Nuclear deformation parameters are crucial for understanding the intrinsic shapes of atomic nuclei, which in turn affects their behavior in fusion reactions.
The practical applications of this research extend to the energy industry, particularly in the field of nuclear fusion. Understanding nuclear shapes and deformations is vital for optimizing fusion reactions, which could lead to more efficient and sustainable energy production. The emulator developed by Liao and colleagues provides a powerful tool for systematically exploring these fundamental properties, potentially accelerating the development of advanced nuclear energy technologies.
In summary, the research team’s work represents a significant advancement in the study of nuclear physics. By developing an emulator that accelerates calculations and enhances the accuracy of nuclear deformation parameter extraction, they have opened new avenues for both fundamental research and practical applications in the energy sector. This work underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing complex scientific challenges.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.