The nuclear shell model is a theoretical framework that describes the arrangement of protons and neutrons in an atomic nucleus, analogous to the arrangement of electrons in atomic shells. This model helps explain the stability and structure of nuclei by suggesting that nucleons occupy discrete energy levels, or shells, which are filled in a manner similar to electron configurations in atoms. It connects the distribution of nucleons to various phenomena like nuclear stability, the chart of nuclides, and the synthesis of heavy elements.
congrats on reading the definition of nuclear shell model. now let's actually learn it.