Atomic clusters as a branch of nuclear physics

Abstract

The conduction electrons in clusters of simple metal atoms are approximatively independent and free. Nucleons in nuclei also behave as delocalized and independent fermions. This generic behavior generates analogies between metal clusters and nuclei, such as the shell structure, the shapes, and the dipole vibration mode. However, there are also major differences that arise from the presence of ions in metal clusters. Fission of nuclei and clusters, and particle emission from them, reveal these differences.