Explain how Magic Numbers are related to stability of a Nuclei.

ANSWER : Magic numbers were first discovered by the Nobel laureate Maria Goeppert Mayer, a German-American physicist, in the 1940s. She proposed the nuclear shell model, through her research and calculations, she identified certain numbers of protons and neutrons that resulted in particularly stable atomic nuclei. These numbers became known as "Magic Numbers" due to their special significance in determining nuclear stability.

Magic numbers are specific numbers of protons or neutrons that make atomic nuclei more stable. They are like the "magic" ingredients that provide extra stability to the nucleus. Magic numbers include 2, 8, 20, 28, 50, 82, and 126. 

Magic numbers arise from the quantum mechanical behavior of nucleons (protons and neutrons). According to the shell model, nucleons occupy energy levels or shells. When a shell is completely filled, the nucleus becomes more stable. Magic numbers correspond to completely filled shells.

For example, helium-4 (2 protons, 2 neutrons) has a completely filled first shell, making it highly stable. Similarly, oxygen-16 (8 protons, 8 neutrons) has a completely filled second shell, which adds to its stability.

The stability provided by magic numbers helps explain nuclear properties and plays a crucial role in nuclear physics and chemistry.

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