Theoretical nuclear physics, looking an dynamics of nuclear collisions using many-body quantum mechanical theory to understand the interactions of nuc
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Surrey
Department Name: Physics
Abstract
This PhD project will involve the use of explicit time-dependent quantum mechanics calculations to describe processes of relevance for nuclear reactions. In particular, this PhD project will look at dissipation effects in the dynamics of nuclear systems and how they can be exploited in theoretical research on superheavy element formation.
Organisations
Studentship Projects
| Project Reference | Relationship | Related To | Start | End | Student Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ST/N504440/1 | 01/10/2015 | 31/03/2021 | |||
| 1942568 | Studentship | ST/N504440/1 | 01/10/2017 | 30/09/2020 | Terence Vockerodt |
| ST/R505134/1 | 01/10/2017 | 30/09/2021 | |||
| 1942568 | Studentship | ST/R505134/1 | 01/10/2017 | 30/09/2020 | Terence Vockerodt |
| Description | Our long-term aim is to develop computer simulation calculations that model the reactions that go on to form superheavy elements. Superheavy element formation reactions have very low yields and thus can be very cumbersome and long lasting experiments. The use of computer simulations can find the reaction conditions necessary to maximise the yield of these reactions, which will enable us to perform better statistical analysis on the experimental data, as well as wrap up the experiments sooner. This means that better experiments can be performed, as well as more of them. This is important because at this stage we do not know things like the chemical and physical properties of superheavy elements, which requires them to be manufactured in order to be properly studied. This is a very involved process and it takes a while to fine-tune how we model the calculations. This thesis has investigated the feasibility of implementing these models in simpler nuclear reactions, and the results are very consistent with the benchmark results. We have taken the first few steps on the journey of reaching this long-term aim, and have several key ideas in place that can take the research to the next level. |
| Exploitation Route | This project has provided a solid foundation into the methods needed to calculate superheavy element formation. The project can be extended via PhD and postdoctoral positions, and some aspects are simple enough to be used as final year projects or Master's placements. |
| Sectors | Chemicals,Other |