Simple new signature of structure in deformed nuclei: Distinguishing the nature of axial asymmetry

Abstract

The low lying structure of deformed nuclei has long been actively investigated. One particular issue has been how to distinguish axial gamma rigidity from gamma softness in axially asymmetric nuclei. In this study, we discuss a new signature based solely on low spin ground and gamma -band energies as a function of spin in deformed nuclei that illuminates some of these questions and apply it to the well-deformed Gd through W isotopes and the transitional, axially asymmetric, Os and Pt nuclei. The simplicity of the new approach suggests that it may have a wide range of use.