Low energy nuclear isomers

Abstract

This paper aims to compile and to structure information about the low energy nuclear isomerism and its use in different areas of convergent sciences. A phenomenon of isomerism investigated in nuclear physics is of a great interest for different areas of science. An analysis has been carried out for most interesting issues of physics, which could be overcome in the nearest future if nuclear isomerism is used. As an example the long standing dilemma of gamma-laser, which can be based on the isomeric states, and a low-energy state of 229Th are considered. Unprecedented the low energy nuclear excitation of the isomer makes possible its use to create a new record on accuracy and stability of the frequency standard (time). The place of low energy states in some astrophysical processes and in nuclear cosmochronology is discussed as well. It is shown how these low energy nuclear excited states, populated in high-temperature stellar conditions, significantly affect the effective rate of decay of astrophysical chronometers. Requirements of precise determination of the energies of the isomeric levels can be successfully provided by mass spectrometry using the Penning ion traps. Description of them is given in a separate paragraph. Refs 32. Figs 6.