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Preparing Adherent Cells for X-ray Fluorescence Imaging by Chemical Fixation
Published on: March 12, 2015
X-ray fluorescence from the element with atomic number Z=120.
M O Frégeau1, D Jacquet, M Morjean
1GANIL, CEA-DSM and IN2P3-CNRS, B.P. 55027, F-14076 Caen Cedex, France.
Physical Review Letters
|May 1, 2012
Summary
Researchers used an atomic clock method to measure the mean fission time of superheavy nuclei (Z=120). This study provides insights into nuclear reactions and atomic physics, determining a minimum fission time of 2.5 x 10^-18 seconds.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Physics
- Atomic Physics
- Heavy Ion Collisions
Background:
- Superheavy elements (Z=120) are synthesized via heavy-ion collisions.
- Understanding the fusion-fission dynamics of these elements is crucial.
- Atomic clocks offer a novel method to probe nuclear processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the mean characteristic time for fusion followed by fission in 238U + 64Ni reactions.
- To investigate the interplay between atomic transitions and nuclear fission in superheavy nuclei.
- To determine the fission time scale of Z=120 compound nuclei.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing an atomic clock technique based on X-ray fluorescence yields.
- Creating and analyzing inner shell vacancies in the electronic structure of Z=120 compound nuclei.
- Measuring K X-ray emissions characteristic of Z=120 and analyzing photon spectra.
Main Results:
- Unambiguous identification of K X rays from the element with Z=120.
- Demonstration that atomic transitions (X-ray emission) precede nuclear fission.
- Deduced a minimum mean fission time of 2.5 x 10^-18 seconds for Z=120.
Conclusions:
- The X-ray yield is directly related to the fission time and vacancy lifetimes.
- The atomic clock method provides a reliable tool for measuring short nuclear timescales.
- This study offers critical data on the stability and decay modes of superheavy elements.
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