Groundbreaking Discovery at MSU's FRIB

In a stunning revelation, researchers at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) of Michigan State University have unearthed an astonishing phenomenon: cobalt-70 isotopes can exist in two distinct shapes, differing only by minuscule energy levels. This remarkable finding, detailed in Nature Communications Physics, illuminates the intricate and dynamic nature of nuclear particles that defy traditional understanding.

The Brilliant Minds Behind the Research

Leading this captivating study is a talented team that includes Professor Artemis Spyrou, Associate Professor Sean Liddick, Professor Alex Brown, and former FRIB student research assistant, Cade Dembski, who helmed the paper as its lead author while now pursuing his Ph.D. at Notre Dame.

A Journey from Astrophysics to Nuclear Structure

Originally sparked by questions in astrophysics, Dembski revealed, "What started as a drive to explore the cosmos turned into a deep dive into nuclear structure!" The team, while analyzing their data, stumbled upon unexpected patterns that led them to significant findings about nuclear shape effects.

Spherical vs. Deformed States: A Nuclear Tug-of-War

Utilizing the advanced Summing NaI Detector (SuN) at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory, the researchers discovered cobalt-70 existed in both spherical and deformed states. Interestingly, this exotic isotope acts as a bridge between chromium isotopes and neutron-rich nickel isotopes, showcasing a rare transition in nuclear forms.

Shape Coexistence: A Game Changer for Nuclear Physics

For years, nuclear physicists have been enchanted by 'magic numbers' of protons and neutrons—nuclei known for their stability. Generally, these nuclei boast spherical shapes, but minor energy shifts can spark a transformative change, prompting them to take on new forms. This phenomenon, dubbed 'shape coexistence,' is crucial for comprehending how different nuclear shapes influence atomic behavior in exotic systems.

Listening Closely: The Art of Total Absorption Spectroscopy

To probe deeper into these nuclear mysteries, the team harnessed total absorption spectroscopy (TAS). By firing high-energy beams at stationary targets in a particle accelerator, they generated a variety of isotopes. However, instead of pinpointing individual gamma ray energies, their focus shifted to capturing the total energy emitted during decay. Spyrou emphasized the importance of this technique, stating, "By summing up the energy, we can trace exactly where the particles originated, which is vital for observing shape coexistence!"

A Gateway to Further Exploration

The findings were staggering: cobalt-70 exhibited both spherical and deformed shapes with one of the smallest documented energy differences in shape coexistence. This discovery not only challenges existing nuclear models but also inspires researchers to delve into studies of nearby isotopes.

Dembski's Evolution: From Undergraduate to Pioneer

Starting his journey with the SuN team as an undergraduate, Dembski's passion for nuclear structure blossomed as they tackled unexpected findings. He commented, "Though we began with astrophysics, the journey led us to pure nuclear structure—and I couldn't have been more invested in it!" This groundbreaking research not only enhances our understanding of nuclear physics but also sets the stage for future explorations in the atomic realm.