Researchers at Peking University have made significant strides in understanding the high-spin states of the isotope 68Zn, a breakthrough that could have far-reaching implications in the energy sector. This study, published in ‘Yuanzineng kexue jishu’ (which translates to ‘Journal of Nuclear Science and Technology’), explores the intricate interplay between single-particle and collective behaviors in nuclear structures, particularly in the A≈70 mass region.
The experimental investigation was conducted using a fusion-evaporation reaction involving lithium and nickel, where a beam energy of 34 MeV was employed to produce 68Zn. The team utilized advanced detection systems, including an array of segmented clover detectors and high-purity germanium detectors with bismuth germinate anti-Compton suppressors, to capture approximately 1.8 billion gamma-gamma coincident events. This robust data set allowed the researchers to build detailed gamma-ray correlation matrices, facilitating a deeper analysis of the nuclear structure.
Lead author Zhou Zhenxiang emphasized the significance of their findings, stating, “The evolution from quasivibrational to quasirotational structures in 68Zn as angular momentum increases provides crucial insights into the behavior of atomic nuclei under high-spin conditions.” This evolution could potentially inform not just theoretical physics but also practical applications in nuclear energy generation and nuclear medicine.
One of the key outcomes of the study was the identification of the first band crossing in the yrast band of 68Zn, which is indicative of changes in the nucleus’s structure as it spins faster. The research suggests that the alignment of specific neutron pairs plays a critical role in these transitions. Such knowledge could pave the way for advancements in nuclear reactor technology, where understanding the behavior of isotopes under various conditions can lead to more efficient energy production.
The implications of this research extend beyond academic curiosity. As the energy sector increasingly looks for sustainable and efficient methods to harness nuclear energy, insights into nuclear structure and deformation could lead to innovations in reactor design and safety measures. Zhou noted, “By understanding the fundamental properties of these isotopes, we are laying the groundwork for future developments in nuclear technology that could enhance energy production capabilities.”
As the world grapples with the challenges of energy sustainability, studies like this one illuminate the path forward. The findings from Peking University not only advance the scientific community’s understanding of nuclear physics but also hold the potential to influence commercial applications in energy production.
For more information on this research and the team’s ongoing work, you can visit the School of Physics at Peking University at lead_author_affiliation.