The evolution of collectivity in nuclei and the proton-neutron interaction

Abstract

We survey the evolution of nuclear structure with N and Z, focusing on collective behavior and its relation to the underlying single particle configurations, and their interactions. We exploit a number of complementary observables, from multiple perspectives, and interpret the observed behavior in terms of simple models. The paper includes a discussion of key observables, how to evaluate theories, and some of the dangers of statistical tests. We conclude with a discussion of schemes to predict the properties of unknown nuclei, founded on the importance of valence proton-neutron interactions, and correlate empirical values for these interactions with the onset of collectivity and deformation.