Physics of exotic nuclei

The past three decades have witnessed the emergence of exotic structures and dynamics in weakly bound unstable nuclei located in the rapidly expanding nuclear chart. Examples include halo and cluster structures, shell evolution incorporating the shift of the nuclear magic numbers, new modes of collective motion, strong coupling to the continuum and new reaction–decay mechanisms. The progress in this fast-evolving field and its deep impacts on several key interdisciplinary realms will be reviewed in this article, together with perspectives for the future exploration of the heavier neutron-rich region. This article reviews the exotic structures and dynamics that emerge in weakly bound unstable nuclei, highlighting their deep impacts on several key interdisciplinary fields. Additionally, it outlines prospects for future exploration of the heavier neutron-rich region.