The discovery of possible tetraneutrons at RIKEN could significantly impact our understanding of nuclear physics. Tetraneutrons, or four-neutron systems, have never been observed before and could provide valuable insight into the strong nuclear force and the stability of nuclei.
The possible tetraneutrons were detected using a high-energy particle accelerator and a detector system called the Zero Degree Neutron Detector (ZND). The ZND was able to measure the energy, trajectory, and charge of particles ejected from the collision of a beryllium-14 nucleus and a helium-4 nucleus, indicating the possible presence of tetraneutrons.
Detecting tetraneutrons is extremely challenging because they have a very short lifespan and are difficult to distinguish from other particles. Additionally, the energy levels required to create tetraneutrons are very high, making it a rare occurrence.
If confirmed, the existence of tetraneutrons could challenge the current understanding of the structure of nuclei and the strong nuclear force. It could also have implications for the formation of heavy elements and the processes that occur in the cores of stars.
The next step is to confirm the existence of tetraneutrons through further experiments and analysis. Researchers will also continue to study the properties and behavior of tetraneutrons to better understand their role in nuclear physics and the universe.