A pioneering collaboration of chemists and physicists hailing from Kyoto University, the Nishina Center for Accelerator-Based Science, RIKEN, Rikkyo University, and Tohoku University in Japan has achieved a groundbreaking feat in nuclear physics.
For the very first time, they witnessed electron scattering from artificially created radioisotopes.
Unveiling Atomic Nuclei's Finite Size
Since the revelation in the 1950s that atomic nuclei possess a finite size, researchers have tirelessly pursued methods to gain insights into the elusive structure of these minuscule entities.
To achieve this, they envisioned the development of a femtoscope, a specialized instrument capable of capturing the inner workings of atomic nuclei.
According to Phys.org, the collaborative research team devised a sophisticated system that embodies the essence of a femtoscope. Their journey commenced with the utilization of a particle accelerator, instrumental in energizing a cluster of electrons.
These highly charged electrons were then expertly directed to collide with a solid block of uranium carbide, giving rise to a stream of cesium-137 ions.
Self-Confining Radioactive-Isotope Ion Target (SCRIT) System
The ions underwent an extraordinary transformation as they entered the innovative self-confining radioactive-isotope ion target (SCRIT) system.
Within this ingenious setup, the ions were meticulously confined within a three-dimensional space, impeccably aligned with an electron beam. This precise alignment facilitated the orchestrated encounters between ions and electrons, laying the foundation for the groundbreaking observations that would follow.
Related Article : Large Hadron Collider Experiment Detects a Rare 'Hypernuclei' From Proton Collisions
Capturing How Electron Scatters
The researchers harnessed the capabilities of a magnetic spectrometer to meticulously record the intricate interference patterns arising from electron scattering. This pivotal achievement marks the very first instance of such electron scattering being captured and observed.
Beyond this remarkable milestone, the SCRIT system has unlocked an array of exciting research opportunities. It offers a versatile platform for investigating scattering events involving various types of nuclei, notably those characterized by short lifespans.
Moreover, the system embodies the qualities of a femtoscope, akin to an oscilloscope but operating on the femtometer scale.
The research titled "First Observation of Electron Scattering from Online-Produced Radioactive Target" can be found in the journal Physical Review Letters.
In other news, Tech Times reported that a group of scientists succeeded in treating the arthritis of a 46-year-old gorilla.
The big primate Liesel is currently under the care of the Budapest Zoo in Hungary. However, the caretakers noticed that the gorilla had difficulty in walking and they suspected that it was because of the arthritis.
The zoo asked help from the University of Sheffield to address Liesel's health problem. Through stem cell therapy, the team of scientists managed to cure the gorilla.
This scientific breakthrough is not only a win for animals, but for humans who are looking to better their lives.
