Nuclear clustering and generalization of the Geiger–Nuttall law 100 years after its formulation

Abstract

The formation of clusters in nuclei is discussed and conditions to assess clusterization are formulated. By using these conditions a generalization of the Geiger–Nuttall law is deduced. This universal decay law (UDL) is a linear relation between the half-lives of the decaying clusters (including alpha particles) and the corresponding Q-values. The agreement between the UDL and available experimental data is excellent. This allows us to distinguish the role played by pairing collectivity in the clustering process.