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Shell Model Magic Numbers Notes

The nuclear shell model describes nucleons moving independently in discrete energy levels, similar to electrons in atomic shells. Magic numbers, which are 2, 8, 20, 28, 50, 82, and 126, correspond to stable nuclei with completely filled shells. Doubly magic nuclei have both proton and neutron numbers equal to magic numbers, resulting in exceptional stability.

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4 views1 page

Shell Model Magic Numbers Notes

The nuclear shell model describes nucleons moving independently in discrete energy levels, similar to electrons in atomic shells. Magic numbers, which are 2, 8, 20, 28, 50, 82, and 126, correspond to stable nuclei with completely filled shells. Doubly magic nuclei have both proton and neutron numbers equal to magic numbers, resulting in exceptional stability.

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junaidmushtaq485
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SHELL MODEL (MAGIC NUMBERS) – EXAM

NOTES

1. Nuclear Shell Model


The nuclear shell model states that nucleons (protons and neutrons) move independently in
discrete energy levels inside the nucleus, similar to electrons in atomic shells. The model was
developed by Maria Goeppert Mayer and J. H. D. Jensen.

2. Magic Numbers
The numbers of protons or neutrons that complete a nuclear shell are called magic numbers. Nuclei
having magic numbers are exceptionally stable.
Magic Numbers: 2, 8, 20, 28, 50, 82, 126

3. Evidence for Magic Numbers


• High abundance of nuclei with magic numbers
• Greater binding energy and stability
• Higher first excitation energy
• Lower neutron-capture cross section
• Smaller probability of radioactive decay

4. Importance of Spin-Orbit Coupling


The inclusion of spin-orbit interaction splits energy levels and explains the experimentally observed
magic numbers.

5. Doubly Magic Nuclei


A nucleus with both proton and neutron numbers equal to magic numbers is called a doubly magic
nucleus.
Examples: He-4 (2,2), O-16 (8,8), Ca-40 (20,20), Pb-208 (82,126).

6. Short Exam Answer


Magic numbers are the numbers of protons or neutrons corresponding to completely filled nuclear
shells. The magic numbers are 2, 8, 20, 28, 50, 82 and 126. Nuclei with these numbers exhibit extra
stability.

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