Comparative Study of Alpha Decay and Double Alpha Decay in Heavy and Super-heavy Nuclei

Alpha decay and double alpha decay are significant decay modes in heavy and super-heavy nuclei. Alpha decay, identified by Ernest Rutherford in 1899 [1] and explained with Frederick Soddy (1902–1903), involves the emission of a helium nucleus (2 protons and 2 neutrons), causing the parent atom to transform into a new element. This well-studied process has been instrumental in understanding nuclear stability and decay chains [2].

Double alpha decay (2α decay), a rare nuclear process, results in the simultaneous or sequential emission of two alpha particles. Theoretical predictions were first made by Giulio Racah, with further insights from Hafstad and Teller (1938) through nuclear cluster models. The first specific prediction of spontaneous double alpha emission was made by Poenaru et al. (1985) [3]. Despite its theoretical importance, experimental observations remain limited. Recent studies, such as Tretyak (2021) [4], have explored double alpha emission from naturally abundant isotopes, pushing the boundaries of nuclear decay research.

Significance of Research: The study of alpha and double alpha decay provides essential insights into nuclear structure and decay mechanisms. It has helped refine nuclear models and cluster theories, enhancing predictions about super-heavy elements. Researchers also explore these decays for their potential role in detecting rare isotopes and studying neutron-proton correlations within nuclei, which could lead to breakthroughs in both theoretical and applied nuclear science.

Alpha Decay vs. Double Alpha Decay:

• Alpha Decay: A common process used in radiometric dating and nuclear energy research.
• Double Alpha Decay: Far rarer, providing insights into multi-particle interactions within the nucleus and challenging existing nuclear models.

Advantages and Applications:

• Nuclear Research: Insights into decay modes drive advancements in nuclear theory and particle physics [5].
• Medical Technology: Alpha particles are vital in cancer treatment through targeted alpha-particle therapy.
• Energy Innovations: Understanding decay processes supports the UAE’s nuclear energy developments.
• Space Exploration: Radioactive decay powers deep-space probes and satellites.

References:

• Rutherford, E. & Soddy, F. (1902). "Radioactive Transformations." Philosophical Magazine.
• Buck, B. et al. (1991). “Recent Developments in the Theory of Alpha Decay” Modern Physics Letters A
• Poenaru, D.N. et al. (1985). "Cluster Radioactivity." Journal of Physics G.
• Tretyak, V.I. (2021). "Double Alpha Emission in Natural Isotopes." arXiv.
• UAE Nuclear Energy Corporation (2022). "Nuclear Research and Energy Developments in the UAE."