Theory of nuclear fission

Atomic nuclei are quantum many-body systems of protons and neutrons held together by strong nuclear forces. Under the proper conditions, can break into two (sometimes three) fragments which will subsequently decay emitting particles. This phenomenon is called fission. Since different fission events may produce fragmentations, end-products all fissions that occurred in a small chemical sample matter comprise hundreds isotopes, including $\alpha$ particles, with large number emitted neutrons, photons, electrons antineutrinos. The extraordinary complexity this process, happens at length scales order femtometer, mostly takes less than femtosecond but not completely over until lingering $\beta$ decays have completed - take years fascinating window physics atomic nuclei. While be more naturally known context its technological applications, it also plays pivotal role synthesis heavy elements astrophysical environments. In both cases, experimental measurements sufficient to provide complete data. Simulations needed, yet levels accuracy precision pose formidable challenges theory. goal article comprehensive overview theoretical methods employed description