All articles tagged with #magic numbers
Magic numbers in nuclear physics are specific counts of protons and neutrons (2, 8, 20, 28, 50, 82, 126) that lead to especially stable atomic nuclei, explained by the nuclear shell model where complete shells confer stability, similar to electron shells in atoms.
Physicists at the Institute of Modern Physics and collaborators have discovered two new isotopes, osmium-160 and tungsten-156, challenging traditional views on nuclear stability and magic numbers. This breakthrough suggests potential for lead-164 to be a stable, doubly magic nucleus, enhancing the understanding of nuclear physics and the architecture of atomic nuclei. The study, published in Physical Review Letters, indicates a significant step forward in nuclear theory and stability, with implications for the development of nuclear forces and deepening our understanding of nuclear physics.
With two days left in the 2023 MLB regular season, five postseason spots are still up for grabs, including the AL West title. The Astros, Blue Jays, and Rangers have the opportunity to clinch postseason berths on Saturday, while the Mariners can only do so on Sunday. The Diamondbacks and Marlins are in a good position to secure the final two wild-card spots in the National League. Several key games will determine the outcome, and magic numbers have been provided for each team's clinching scenarios.
With seven teams already in the MLB playoffs, eight teams are vying for the remaining five spots. The Rangers, Blue Jays, Astros, and Mariners are battling for the final two American League postseason spots, while the Diamondbacks, Cubs, Marlins, and Reds are competing for the last two National League wild-card spots. The Braves, Dodgers, Brewers, and Phillies have already secured their playoff berths. Wednesday's key games include the Marlins-Mets doubleheader and matchups between the Reds and Guardians, Rays and Red Sox, and Yankees and Blue Jays. Several teams have magic numbers to clinch playoff berths or home-field advantage.
Scientists have discovered a new isotope of oxygen, oxygen-28, with the highest number of neutrons ever observed in an oxygen atom. While it was expected to be stable due to its "magic" numbers of protons and neutrons, it actually decays rapidly. This challenges our understanding of the stability of isotopes and the concept of magic numbers in atomic nuclei. The findings suggest that the neutron shell in oxygen-28 is not completely filled, raising questions about the stability of isotopes with 20 neutrons. Further research is needed to explore the nucleus in an excited state and investigate alternative methods of oxygen-28 formation.