⁷⁰Zn-induced fusion reactions for synthesis of superheavy element Z=120

Abstract

In this work, we delved into the intriguing realm of nuclear physics by investigating fusion reactions initiated by [Formula: see text]Zn projectiles colliding with various stable isotopes of thorium nuclei, including [Formula: see text]Th. Our primary objective was the synthesis of the superheavy element [Formula: see text]. To achieve this, we employed an advanced statistical model to evaluate the evaporation residue cross-sections. Remarkably, we observed that the fusion reaction between [Formula: see text]Zn and [Formula: see text]Th exhibited the highest evaporation residue cross-sections, reaching a peak value. Furthermore, the 3n channel within this fusion reaction yielded substantially larger evaporation cross-sections, with a notable value of 0.89 picobarns. The predicted cross-sections fall within the measurable range, making them highly valuable for experimental endeavors aimed at synthesizing the superheavy element [Formula: see text]. This research not only contributes to our understanding of nuclear reactions but also holds promise for expanding our knowledge of the heaviest elements in the periodic table, potentially opening new frontiers in nuclear science.