Review of metastable states in heavy nuclei. (31st May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dracoulis, G D; Walker, P M; Kondev, F G
• Is Part Of: Reports on progress in physics. Volume 79:Number 7(2016:Jul.)
• Publication Date: 2016-05-31
• Subjects: nuclear structure -- isomers -- decay properties; Physics -- Periodicals; 530.05
• DOI: 10.1088/0034-4885/79/7/076301
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0034-4885

Abstract

Abstract: The structure of nuclear isomeric states is reviewed in the context of their role in contemporary nuclear physics research. Emphasis is given to high-spin isomers in heavy nuclei, with A ≳ 150 . The possibility to exploit isomers to study some of the most exotic nuclei is a recurring theme. In spherical nuclei, the role of octupole collectivity is discussed in detail, while in deformed nuclei the limitations of the K quantum number are addressed. Isomer targets and isomer beams are considered, along with applications related to energy storage, astrophysics, medicine, and experimental advances.