Predicting nuclear, atomic and solid-state properties of the heaviest atoms
Speaker: Odile Smits
Affiliation: University of Queensland
Abstract
Predicting the properties of atoms from first principles is a fascinating challenge at the intersection of quantum theory, relativity, and many-body physics. In this colloquium I will speak about two branches of first principles predictions: the prediction of the solid-state properties of the superheavy elements (Z > 102); and precision atomic hyperfine calculations. While the superheavy elements are highly radioactive, hindering experimental measurements, hyperfine calculations for lighter atoms can be directly compared with extremely accurate experimental data. I will highlight the motivation, challenges and accuracy that comes with each of studies.
About Physics colloquium
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Venue
Room: 222
