Nuclear structure and modern research

MAY 01, 1967

By creating and studying in our laboratories the nuclear reactions and excitations that exist in quantity in the stars we are advancing our understanding of fundamental stellar processes and acquiring the benefits of nuclear technology.

DOI: 10.1063/1.3034302

Victor F. Weisskopf

IN THE EXPLORATION of the structure of matter in the last decades we have witnessed three steps: first, the exploration of the electron shells of the atom; second, investigation of the structure of the nucleus; and third, the beginning of the exploration of the structure of the nucleon, the constituent of the nucleus.

This article is only available in PDF format

More about the authors

Victor F. Weisskopf, MIT.

Physics Today is looking for a Senior Editor. Apply Now.

Related content

Features

Article

The paradoxical phenomenon of quantum scarring

Inside certain quantum systems, where randomness was thought to lurk, researchers—after a 40-year journey—have found order and unique wave patterns that stubbornly survive.

April 02, 2026 12:26 PM

Features

Article

Black holes aren’t black

A half century after the discovery of Hawking radiation, we are still dealing with the quantum puzzle it exposed.

March 26, 2026 12:23 PM

Features

Article

How the twist of a molecule affects electron spin

Since the discovery was first reported in 1999, researchers have uncovered many aspects of the chiral-induced spin selectivity effect, but its underlying mechanisms remain unclear.

March 11, 2026 09:55 AM

Features

Article

Quantum-based standards for pressure measurements

Metrologists are using fundamental physics to define units of measure. Now NIST has developed new quantum sensors to measure and realize the pascal.

March 06, 2026 03:02 PM

This Content Appeared In