Thursday 23 January 2025
Scientists have long been fascinated by the properties of atomic nuclei, and one particular phenomenon has caught their attention: the decay of two-neutron-rich isotopes of lithium. In a recent study, researchers used advanced techniques to investigate the decay patterns of 11Li and 13Li, shedding light on the behavior of these exotic atoms.
The researchers began by creating 11Li and 13Li through collisions between high-energy particles. They then analyzed the decay products using sophisticated detectors and computer simulations. The data revealed a fascinating pattern: while 11Li decays primarily through direct two-neutron emission, 13Li exhibits a significant sequential component, where neutrons are emitted in a sequence rather than simultaneously.
This discovery has important implications for our understanding of nuclear physics. Sequential decay is typically associated with more complex systems, such as three-body resonances, but the researchers found it occurring in a two-neutron-rich system like 13Li. This suggests that the nucleus is capable of exhibiting complex behavior even at relatively low energies.
The study also provides insight into the internal structure of these isotopes. By analyzing the energy spectra of the decay products, the researchers were able to infer the presence of excited states in both nuclei. These states are thought to arise from the interactions between the neutrons and the core nucleus, which can lead to the formation of resonances.
The theoretical models used by the researchers to interpret their data highlight the complex interplay between nuclear forces and the structure of these isotopes. The calculations suggest that the sequential decay in 13Li is driven by a combination of two-neutron correlations and the interaction between the neutrons and the core nucleus.
This research has significant implications for our understanding of nuclear physics, particularly at the frontiers of exotic atomic nuclei. By studying the decay patterns of these isotopes, scientists can gain insights into the fundamental forces that govern the behavior of atomic nuclei and shed light on the properties of matter at its most extreme scales.
Cite this article: “Unraveling the Secrets of Two-Neutron-Rich Lithium Isotopes”, The Science Archive, 2025.
Atomic Nuclei, Lithium Isotopes, Two-Neutron-Rich, Nuclear Decay, Sequential Emission, Three-Body Resonances, Energy Spectra, Excited States, Resonances, Nuclear Forces
