New particle collision method: physicists uncover the intricate details of atomic nucleus structure (video).

Physicists at Brookhaven National Laboratory (USA) have showcased a novel method for utilizing high-energy particle collisions through the RHIC particle accelerator. The researchers claim that this new technique enables the determination of the overall shape of an atomic nucleus: it can be elongated like a football or flattened like a tangerine. Additionally, this method reveals subtle differences among the three principal axes of the nucleus, characterizing the shape between a "ball" and a "tangerine." The study is published in the journal Nature, as reported by Interesting Engineering.

The physicists assert that this new approach complements other methods for determining atomic nucleus structure through low-energy particle collisions. This technique enhances our understanding of the nuclei of atoms that make up nearly all visible matter.

According to the scientists, deciphering the shapes of atomic nuclei relates to a wide array of physics questions, including which atoms are most likely to undergo fission during nuclear splitting, how heavy chemical elements form during neutron star collisions, and which atomic nuclei might lead to the discovery of exotic particle decays. The new insights into atomic nucleus shapes will aid physicists in understanding the initial conditions that existed right after the creation of the Universe.

Since 99.9% of visible matter, from which humans, all stars, and planets are made, consists of atomic nuclei, understanding these nuclear building blocks is fundamental to comprehending the entire Universe, the physicists state.

The researchers note that this new method can be applied to identify other forms of atomic nuclei, particularly those where low-energy particle collisions have not provided a complete picture. For instance, this technique can be utilized to study so-called isobaric nuclei. These are nuclei with the same total number of protons and neutrons but with different proportions of each type of particle, according to the physicists.

Such pairs arise when two neutrons in a "parent" nucleus with a high neutron count transform into protons via weak interaction, creating a "daughter" nucleus with a lower neutron count. This process is known as double beta decay, the scientists explain.

Understanding the differences in shape between parent and daughter nuclei may help reduce uncertainties in models used in experiments searching for an invisible type of decay known as neutrinoless double beta decay, say the study authors.