11 research outputs found
Laser spectroscopic characterization of the nuclear-clock isomer Th
The isotope Th is the only nucleus known to possess an excited state
Th in the energy range of a few electron volts, a transition energy
typical for electrons in the valence shell of atoms, but about four orders of
magnitude lower than common nuclear excitation energies. A number of
applications of this unique nuclear system, which is accessible by optical
methods, have been proposed. Most promising among them appears a highly precise
nuclear clock that outperforms existing atomic timekeepers. Here we present the
laser spectroscopic investigation of the hyperfine structure of
Th, yielding values of fundamental nuclear properties, namely
the magnetic dipole and electric quadrupole moments as well as the nuclear
charge radius. After the recent direct detection of this long-searched-for
isomer, our results now provide detailed insight into its nuclear structure and
present a method for its non-destructive optical detection.Comment: 18 page
The electron-ion scattering experiment ELISe at the International Facility for Antiproton and Ion Research (FAIR)-A conceptual design study
The electron-ion scattering experiment ELISe is part of the installations envisaged at the new experimental storage ring at the International Facility for Antiproton and Ion Research (FAIR) in Darmstadt, Germany. It offers an unique opportunity to use electrons as probe in investigations of the structure of exotic nuclei. The conceptual design and the scientific challenges of ELISe are presented. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.Peer reviewe