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Physics, Astronomy & Cosmology / Does the atomic nucleus have nuclear orbitals occupied by protons and neutrons?
« on: 24/03/2004 18:13:16 »
Anyone who has taken High School chemistry can tell you that the electrons in an atom exist in "atomic orbitals" that have a specific shape. These atomic orbitals come in different types, called s, p, d, f, and so on. The nature of these orbitals greatly affects the chemistry of that atom or molecule.
Now for my question: does the nucleus of an atom have "nuclear orbitals" that are occupied by protons and neutrons? If so, then what are the names and shapes of these orbitals? Since there is a "nuclear shell theory" for the atomic nucleus, it seemed to me that protons and neutrons should occupy certain energy states in the nucleus, rather than being stuck together randomly like textbooks often depict. It would be helpful if you could also supply me with a link to a webpage about nuclear orbitals.
Now for my question: does the nucleus of an atom have "nuclear orbitals" that are occupied by protons and neutrons? If so, then what are the names and shapes of these orbitals? Since there is a "nuclear shell theory" for the atomic nucleus, it seemed to me that protons and neutrons should occupy certain energy states in the nucleus, rather than being stuck together randomly like textbooks often depict. It would be helpful if you could also supply me with a link to a webpage about nuclear orbitals.