What is the 'island of stability' in superheavy elements?

💡 The Answer

• The island of stability predicts superheavy nuclei with magic numbers of protons and neutrons.
• These nuclei would have half-lives much longer than typical superheavy elements.
• Theoretical calculations suggest isotopes around atomic number 114 and 126 may be stable.
• Explaining the island requires understanding nuclear shell closures and deformation.