Nuclear Energy Levels

Nuclear energy levels refer to the specific energy states that protons and neutrons, the particles in an atomic nucleus, can occupy. Just like electrons in an atom have specific energy levels, nucleons also have defined energy states based on the forces that bind them together. These energy levels result from complex interactions within the nucleus. When nucleons move between these levels, they can release or absorb energy, often in the form of gamma rays. Understanding these levels helps explain phenomena such as radioactive decay and nuclear reactions, which are central to fields like nuclear physics and energy production.