Global $\alpha$-decay study based on the mass table of the relativistic continuum Hartree-Bogoliubov theory

TL;DR

This study uses the relativistic continuum Hartree-Bogoliubov theory to systematically analyze alpha-decay energies across a wide range of isotopes, predicting potential new decay pathways in heavy and super-heavy nuclei.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive theoretical prediction of alpha-decay energies for isotopes with Z=10 to 120 using RCHB theory, including insights into shell effects and potential undiscovered nuclei.

Findings

RCHB-derived $Q_\alpha$ values match experimental patterns.

Many heavy and super-heavy nuclei may undergo alpha decay due to large $Q_\alpha$ values.

Shell structure significantly influences alpha-decay energies.

Abstract

The $\alpha$-decay energies ($Q_\alpha$) are systematically investigated with the nuclear masses for $10 \leq Z \leq 120$ isotopes obtained by the relativistic continuum Hartree-Bogoliubov (RCHB) theory with the covariant density functional PC-PK1, and compared with available experimental values. It is found that the $\alpha$-decay energies deduced from the RCHB results present similar pattern as those from available experiments. Owing to the large predicted $Q_\alpha$ values ($\geq$ 4 MeV), many undiscovered heavy nuclei in the proton-rich side and super-heavy nuclei may have large possibilities for $\alpha$-decay. The influence of nuclear shell structure on $\alpha$-decay energies is also analysed.