New astatine isotope decays by emitting protons.
A newly discovered astatine isotope, with 85 protons and 103 neutrons, decays by emitting individual protons, a rare phenomenon.
Why it matters
- Provides insight into rare proton emission decay.
- Enhances understanding of exotic nuclei properties.
By the numbers
- 85 protons and 103 neutrons in the nucleus.
- Astatine: rarest element, <1 gram globally.
The big picture
- Proton emission is rare in nuclear decay.
- Nucleus shape: watermelon-like, indicating unusual structure.
What they're saying
- First author highlights rarity of proton emission.
- Public interest noted in comments.
Caveats
- More observations needed for full understanding.
- Further study of 189At proposed.
What’s next
- Research on 189At decay.
- More observations of 188At.