American theoretical physicists have developed a simulation that analyzes the process of splitting atoms into two at the microscopic level. It is thought that the study may open the doors to a new era in science and technology by providing important information about how nuclear fission events occur.
This research, conducted in collaboration with theoretical physicists from Los Alamos National Laboratory and the University of Washington (UW), was completed in 2024. The simulation details the four stages of splitting an atom into two.
Behavior of subatomic particles
In the first stage, when a slow-moving neutron enters the nucleus, the shape of the atom changes, forming a “curve point.” Then, in the “break the curve” phase, the core begins to disintegrate. While the process lasts approximately 5×10^-21 seconds, the nucleus divides further and passes into the stage known as “neck rupture”. Finally, this process takes place within 10^-18 seconds, and neutrons and gamma rays are emitted as the fission fragments rapidly move away.
The simulation helps us better understand how subatomic particles behave and their interactions. The team, led by theoretical physicist Aurel Bulgac, confirmed the high-precision predictions on this subject with experimental data and reached previously unforeseen results. The results illuminate the complex nature of nuclear fission, particularly findings involving the release of high-energy neutrons.
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