Abstract
A Fermi-gas calculation of nuclear partition functions suitable for use in a Saha equation is presented. The model naturally includes both bound and continuum nuclear states constructed from an independent particle model. General formulas for the nuclear partition function and excitation energy are given in terms of Fermi integrals. The continuum is found to have the effect of reducing the partition function, as was suggested by Fowler et al. (1978), but not to the extreme of the truncated state-density integral. Results obtained for Ni-56 indicate that the partition function and mean excitation energy remain large even for temperatures as high as 100 billion K and that methods that truncate a state-density integral to calculate the nuclear partition function are incorrect.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
