The SU(3) structure of rotational states in heavy deformed nuclei

Abstract

The SU(3) coupling scheme provides an informative basis for the expansion of shell-model wave functions and their interpretation in collective-model terms. We show in this paper that it is possible, using the coupled-rotor-vibrator model, to infer averages of the distributions of SU(3) representation labels in heavy rotational nuclei by direct interpretation of physically observed E2 transition rates and quadrupole moments. We find that the distributions of SU(3) representation labels have nearly constant average values for states belonging to some well-defined rotational bands. These are bands of states having B(E2) values and quadrupole moments that follow the predictions of the rotor model. Such bands are interpreted as soft SU(3) bands in parallel with the concept of a soft rotor band with vibrational-shape fluctuations. The concept of a soft SU(3) band and its implications for beta-vibrational excited bands is developed. The average SU(3) representation labels inferred from experiment are interpreted by calculating those implied by the Nilsson model. An analysis of the SU(3) content of Nilsson wave functions also leads to two remarkable predictions. The first is that, in the asymptotic limit, the Nilsson model implies intrinsic states for a rotor band that are beta rigid. The second is that, although the intrinsic Nilsson state is axially symmetric, it generates a sequence of K = 0,2,4, … bands.