Abstract
In this paper we review results obtained in the searches of double beta decays to excited states of the daughter nuclei and illustrate the related experimental techniques. In particular, we describe in some detail the only two cases in which the transition has been observed; that is the 2β−(0+→01+) decay of 100Mo and 150Nd nuclides. Moreover, the most significant results in terms of lower limits on the half-life are also summarized.
Highlights
In 1935 Maria Goeppert-Mayer described a second-order weak-interaction process: the double beta decay1, a transition between isobaric nuclei where two neutrons simultaneously decay into protons (2β− ) [1]; this process can occur in neutron-rich nuclei
The latter process is allowed in the Standard Model of particle physics (SM) predicted to be extremely rare; these predictions use many-body techniques and nuclear models similar to those applied for 0νββ decay; measurements of 2νββ decay are relevant for interpreting 0νββ decay results
The ββ decay is among the rarest processes in nature and offers an ideal benchmark to study atomic physics, nuclear physics, and physics beyond the Standard Model. Another way to approach the investigation of ββ decay processes is to study decays where the daughter nucleus is left in an excited state; the excited state will decay to the ground state emitting gamma rays
Summary
In 1935 Maria Goeppert-Mayer described a second-order weak-interaction process: the double beta (ββ) decay , a transition between isobaric nuclei where two neutrons simultaneously decay into protons (2β− ) [1]; this process can occur in neutron-rich nuclei. The latter process is allowed in the Standard Model of particle physics (SM) predicted to be extremely rare; these predictions use many-body techniques and nuclear models similar to those applied for 0νββ decay; measurements of 2νββ decay are relevant for interpreting 0νββ decay results. The ββ decay is among the rarest processes in nature and offers an ideal benchmark to study atomic physics, nuclear physics, and physics beyond the Standard Model Another way to approach the investigation of ββ decay processes is to study decays where the daughter nucleus is left in an excited state; the excited state will decay to the ground state emitting gamma rays. In the following we will introduce and discuss several experimental results in the searches for ββ decay processes to excited states of daughter nuclei with some perspectives
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