Nuclear and Atomic energy levels

In summary, the conversation discusses the differences between the energy levels in the Shell Model of the nucleus and the atomic energy levels. While the order of the energy levels may be different, the number of particles that can occupy each level remains the same due to the quantum numbers and the Pauli exclusion principle. The nuclear potential, determined by the nucleons, also plays a role in the complexity of the energy levels and has been a topic of Nobel Prize-winning research.
  • #1
QuarkDecay
47
2
I've noticed that in the Shell Model of the nucleus, the order of the energy levels is 1s, 1p3/2, 1p1/2, etc. While in the atomic energy levels it goes 1S 2S 2P, ... But they still take the same amount of particles for each level in both the atomic and nucleus.

Am I missing something here? Or why does this happen? I mean, their order being different, but all of the rest is the same just changing electrons with nucleons
 
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  • #2
The nuclear potential is not an 1/r2 potential and it is created by the nucleons occupying it. That makes the energy levels more complicated. The number of particles that can occupy a given energy level depends on the quantum numbers only, if you compare matching quantum numbers you get the same number of particles that fit in.
 
  • #3
The important point is the spin-orbit term, giving the "magic numbers" of nuclei. For that Jensen and Goeppert-Mayer earnt their Nobel.
 
  • #4
They take the same amount of particles for each level because they are fermions and must obey the Pauli exclusion principle.
 

What are nuclear and atomic energy levels?

Nuclear and atomic energy levels refer to the different energy states that an atom or nucleus can possess. These energy levels are determined by the arrangement of electrons and protons within the atom or nucleus.

What is the significance of nuclear and atomic energy levels?

The energy levels of an atom or nucleus determine its stability and the types of chemical reactions it can undergo. They also play a crucial role in nuclear reactions and energy production.

How are nuclear and atomic energy levels measured?

Nuclear and atomic energy levels are measured using spectroscopy, which involves analyzing the electromagnetic radiation emitted or absorbed by an atom or nucleus. The energy levels are represented by discrete lines on a spectrum.

What factors affect nuclear and atomic energy levels?

The primary factors that affect nuclear and atomic energy levels are the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus, and the number and arrangement of electrons in the atom. The strength of the nuclear force and the electric charge also play a role.

How do nuclear and atomic energy levels relate to nuclear energy production?

Nuclear energy is produced by splitting the nucleus of an atom, a process known as nuclear fission. The energy released in this process is a result of the difference in energy levels between the original and split nuclei. The stability of nuclear energy levels also determines the stability of a nuclear reaction.

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