Maria Goeppert Mayer's Theoretical Work on Rare-Earth and Transuranic Elements

TL;DR

Maria Goeppert Mayer used the Thomas-Fermi model to predict a second rare-earth series and its extension to transuranic elements, influencing the understanding of heavy element electronic configurations.

Contribution

She applied the Thomas-Fermi model with computational visualization to predict new element series, advancing theoretical insights into heavy element electronic structures.

Findings

Predicted a second rare-earth series near elements 91-92

Visualized eigenfunctions and energy changes at the start of the rare-earth series

Discussed the impact on the periodic table

Abstract

After the discovery of element 93 neptunium by Edwin McMillan and Philip H. Abelson in 1941, Maria Goeppert Mayer applied the Thomas-Fermi model to calculate the electronic configuration of heavy elements and predicted the occurrence of a second rare-earth series in the vicinity of elements 91 or 92 extending to the transuranic elements. Mayer was motivated by Enrico Fermi, who was at the time contemplating military uses of nuclear energy. Historical development of nuclear science research leading to Mayer's publication is outlined. Mayer's method is introduced with the aid of a computer, which enables students to visualize her description of eigenfunctions, particularly the sudden change of spatial distribution and eigenenergy at the beginning of the rare-earth series. The impact of Mayer's work on the periodic table is discussed.