Proton magic number

Proton magic numbers are specific numbers of protons in an atom's nucleus that result in especially stable configurations. These numbers—such as 2, 8, 20, 28, 50, 82, and 126—correspond to filled nuclear energy levels, similar to electron shells in atoms. When protons fill these levels, the nucleus becomes more stable and less likely to break apart. Understanding these numbers helps scientists predict the stability of elements and the existence of elements outside the stable range, playing a crucial role in nuclear physics and the study of atomic structure.