Photon-induced nuclear excitation

Photon-induced nuclear excitation is a process where high-energy photons, such as gamma rays, interact with atomic nuclei, causing them to absorb energy and enter an excited state. This can make the nucleus unstable, leading it to release energy in the form of radiation as it returns to a lower energy state. This phenomenon is significant in fields like nuclear physics, astrophysics, and medical imaging, as it helps researchers understand nuclear structures and processes. Essentially, it's a way for light to energize atomic nuclei, triggering various reactions or emissions.