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New insights on the role of nucleon exchange in nuclear fusion

A recent study has explored the influence on low-energy fusion processes of isospin composition. This is a key nuclear property that differentiates protons from neutrons. The researchers used and theoretical modeling to investigate the fusion of different nuclei with varying isospin configurations. The results show that the isospin composition of the nuclei in a fusion reaction plays a crucial role in understanding the reaction. The paper is published in the journal Physical Review C.

In this study, researchers at Fisk University and Vanderbilt University used high-performance computational and theoretical modeling techniques to conduct a detailed many-body method study of how the dynamics of isospin influence nuclear fusion at low energies across a series of isotopes. The study also examined how the shape of the nuclei involved affect these dynamics. In systems where the nuclei are not symmetrical, the dynamics of isospin become particularly important, often leading to a lowered fusion barrier, especially in systems rich in neutrons. This phenomenon can be explored using facilities that specialize in the generation of beams composed of exotic, unstable nuclei.

The findings provide critical knowledge regarding the fundamental nuclear processes governing these reactions, which have broad implications for fields such as , astrophysics, and, perhaps someday, fusion-based energy.

New PHP Vulnerability Exposes Windows Servers to Remote Code Execution

Details have emerged about a new critical security flaw impacting PHP that could be exploited to achieve remote code execution under certain circumstances.

The vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2024–4577, has been described as a CGI argument injection vulnerability affecting all versions of PHP installed on the Windows operating system.

According to DEVCORE security researcher, the shortcoming makes it possible to bypass protections put in place for another security flaw, CVE-2012–1823.

Microscopic black holes may explain all dark matter in the universe

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, there is much more than meets the eye. For every kilogram of visible matter in the universe, from the computer on your desk to the distant stars and galaxies, there are 5 kilograms of invisible “dark matter” that permeate our surroundings.

This enigmatic dark matter evades direct observation yet exerts its invisible pull on the visible objects around us.

Fifty years ago, renowned physicist Stephen Hawking proposed a fascinating idea about the nature of dark matter. He suggested that it might consist of a population of black holes that formed in the early stages of the universe, mere moments after the Big Bang.

Bill Gates-backed startup creates Lego-like brick that can store air pollution for centuries: ‘A milestone for affordably removing carbon dioxide from the air’

The pipe dream of carbon capture is one step closer to reality thanks to a Bill Gates-backed startup that is burying bricks made from plants.

The Washington Post detailed a “deceptively simple” procedure by Graphyte to sequester blocks of wood chips and rice hulls, calling it “a game-changer” for the industry, which has been held back by the cost ineffectiveness of other methods.

“The approach, the company claims, could store a ton of CO2 for around $100 a ton, a number long considered a milestone for affordably removing carbon dioxide from the air,” the outlet reported.