Uncovering Atomic Secrets at FSU's Lab

The John D. Fox Superconducting Linear Accelerator Laboratory at Florida State University (FSU) has been working on nuclear science since the 1960s. This place is known for its cutting-edge studies on the structure of atomic nuclei and the reactions that happen when they collide. Researchers at this lab focus on using advanced equipment to carry out experiments that help us understand the mysteries of the atomic world.

#The John D. Fox Laboratory

The FSU Accelerator Laboratory began its journey in 1960 with a fancy machine called the EN Tandem Van de Graaf accelerator. This was the second one of its kind in the United States. Over the years, the lab has made significant achievements in nuclear science, like accelerating charged helium ions and identifying unique resonances in proton-induced reactions.

In 1970, the lab upgraded its equipment with a Super-FN Tandem Van de Graaff accelerator. This led to the installation of a superconducting linear post-accelerator in the mid-1980s. This new piece of equipment allowed researchers to run even more advanced experiments. By 2007, the facility was named after John D. Fox, who played a significant role in its development.

Today, the lab has two main accelerators that produce a variety of particle beams for experiments. These beams excite atomic nuclei and help scientists study how they behave under different conditions. The facility has expanded its capabilities with new systems and detectors, allowing it to carry out more complex experiments.

#Experimental Setups

#Super-Enge Split-Pole Spectrograph (SE-SPS)

One of the key tools at the FSU lab is the Super-Enge Split-Pole Spectrograph (SE-SPS). This device was relocated to FSU after the Wright Nuclear Structure Laboratory at Yale closed its doors. The SE-SPS is designed to analyze the momentum of reaction products and focus them to help identify nuclear reactions and excited states.

The SE-SPS has a massive advantage in experiments because it can capture a larger solid angle, improving the chances of detecting rare events during nuclear reactions. It was officially commissioned at FSU in 2018 and has already produced impressive results, including identifying excited states in titanium isotopes.

#CeBrA Demonstrator

Another significant development is the Cerium Bromide Array (CeBrA) demonstrator. This setup is focused on particle-coincidence experiments, which involve detecting many particles simultaneously during a nuclear reaction. With the addition of several detectors, researchers can accurately identify particle decays and gather valuable data from nuclear reactions.

One of the exciting aspects of the CeBrA setup is its ability to detect various excited states of nuclei. It has allowed scientists to make new discoveries about the behavior of atomic nuclei, even revealing states that had never been observed before.

#CATRiNA Neutron Detector

Neutrons play a crucial role in nuclear reactions, and the CATRiNA neutron detector array at the lab has been designed specifically for their detection. This setup uses liquid scintillator detectors that can differentiate between neutron and gamma-ray interactions.

The CATRiNA detectors have been used in various experiments, including proton transfer experiments, where deuteron beams interact with different targets. This has provided valuable insights into neutron behavior and reactions from different materials.

#CLARION2-TRINITY Array

The CLARION2 and TRINITY array is a new setup for high-resolution gamma-ray spectroscopy. This system utilizes Clover-type High-Purity Germanium (HPGe) detectors, arranged in a way to minimize detector overlap and enhance detection accuracy.

The combination of this setup with particle detection allows scientists to conduct precise studies of nuclear reactions. For instance, the lab has been able to study low-lying resonances in isotopes, linking their properties to the broader understanding of nuclear physics.

#Importance of Nuclear Physics

Nuclear physics is essential for understanding how matter behaves at the most fundamental levels. By studying atomic nuclei, scientists can explore how stars form, how elements are created in the universe, and even how nuclear reactions impact our daily lives.

For instance, nuclear reactions are at the heart of energy production in stars, including our Sun. Understanding these reactions can help scientists harness nuclear energy safely and effectively. Additionally, studying nuclear structure and reactions helps inform the fields of medicine, particularly in radiation treatments and diagnostic imaging.

#Recent Research Highlights

#Spectroscopy of Single-Particle Strengths

One of the focuses of research at the FSU lab has been on measuring single-particle strengths in nuclear isotopes. Researchers have found that only a fraction of the expected strengths are observed experimentally, particularly in unstable isotopes.

By studying various isotopes, scientists can make sense of how nuclear strength is distributed among different states. This research not only sheds light on nuclear structure but also improves our understanding of fundamental interactions within the nucleus.

#The Pygmy Dipole Resonance

The pygmy dipole resonance is a phenomenon occurring in neutron-rich nuclei. This unique structure contributes to our understanding of nuclear strengths and how they manifest in different states of matter. Experiments have focused on uncovering its properties and how it relates to nuclear models.

Early results suggest that the wavefunctions of these states are mainly influenced by one-particle-one-hole excitations involving excess neutrons. Continuing research aims to clarify these findings, particularly how they relate to broader nuclear models.

#Nuclear Astrophysics

Nuclear astrophysics is the study of how nuclear reactions and processes affect the universe's evolution. The FSU lab has participated in studies linked to the production of specific isotopes in stars.

For example, one recent study focused on the long-lived isotopes, like aluminum-26. These isotopes play a key role in understanding how stars create and contribute elements to the galaxy. By exploring the reactions between isotopes, researchers aim to resolve discrepancies about their properties and the rates at which they are produced.

#Future Outlook

The future of nuclear science at the FSU John D. Fox Laboratory looks promising. Plans include expanding the CeBrA detector array to enhance the capabilities of particle-coincidence experiments. Additionally, researchers are working on a new focal-plane detector to improve detection resolution and increase counting rates.

These advancements will allow scientists to tackle more complex problems in nuclear physics and related fields. The coupling of different detection systems will enable comprehensive studies of reactions, further unraveling the mysteries of nuclear structure and behavior.

#Conclusion

The FSU John D. Fox Superconducting Linear Accelerator Laboratory is a hub of nuclear science research, dedicated to unraveling the intricate details of atomic nuclei and their reactions. With advanced experimental setups and a commitment to discovery, the lab continues to push the boundaries of our knowledge, contributing to fields ranging from energy generation to understanding the cosmos.

In the world of nuclear physics, every experiment is like a treasure hunt, and the researchers at FSU are armed with their detectors and curiosity, ready to uncover the secrets of the atomic universe.