FORMATION OF NUCLEAR MOLECULES IN CLUSTER RADIOACTIVITY On Interpretation of the Cluster Radioactivity Mechanism

The basis for cluster radioactivity is the property of nuclei of light isotopes of elements heavier than lead to spontaneously form clusters—nuclei of light elements—from valence nucleons, which gives rise to asymmetric nuclear molecules. The cluster formation proceeds through successive excitation-free transfer of valence nucleons to the α particle and to subsequent light nuclei. Nuclear molecule formation is accompanied by a considerable amount of released energy, which allows quantum-mechanical penetration of the cluster through the exit Coulomb barrier.