Quantum shell structure governs short-range proton-neutron pairings in atomic nuclei, Jefferson Lab study finds

Summary

Physicists have discovered that the quantum arrangement (shell structure) of protons and neutrons inside atomic nuclei plays a much bigger role in close proton-neutron pairings than previously understood. Using electron scattering experiments at Jefferson Lab, researchers found that nucleons in the same quantum shell are more likely to form short-range correlated pairs, challenging earlier assumptions that such pairings were primarily governed by the strong nuclear force independent of shell structure. The findings provide new insights into nuclear structure and the fundamental interactions between nucleons.