Investigation of the formation of superheavy elements with atomic numbers 116 and 120 through $^{50}$Ti-induced reaction

Abstract

The synthesis of superheavy elements provides crucial insights into the stability and structure of nuclei at the limits of the periodic table. This study investigates the $^{50}$Ti$+^{244}$Pu and $^{50}$Ti$+^{251}$Cf reactions as pathways to form superheavy elements (SHEs) 116 (Livermorium) and 120, respectively. Using the dinuclear system model, key parameters such as fusion probability and fusion cross section were calculated. These findings were used to examine neutron emission and survival probability through a statistical approach. The reaction $^{50}$Ti$+^{244}$Pu is explored as a continuation of experimental efforts to extend the known isotopic range of element 116, while the $^{50}$Ti$+^{251}$Cf reaction represents a frontier for the synthesis of element 120. The role of shell effects, excitation energy, and angular momentum on the production and stability of these nuclei is discussed. The results provide theoretical predictions to guide future experimental efforts aimed at advancing our understanding of the island of stability and the limits of nuclear existence.