Isotope Shifts, Radioactive Decay, and the Nuclear Forces
摘要
In this chapter, we explore the nucleus, focusing on how the number of neutrons in a nucleus influences transition frequencies and the stability of atoms. We begin by examining the effect of neutrons on transition frequencies, then shift into detailed discussions of the nuclear forces and principles governing atomic stability and radioactive decay. Various modes of radioactive decay, including neutron and proton emission, \(\alpha \) decay, spontaneous fission, \(\beta ^-\) decay, \(\beta ^+\) decay, and electron capture, are investigated, with an emphasis on the conditions under which each occurs. Additionally, we explore the nuclear shell model to understand the energetics behind different types of decays and the stability of isotopes.