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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Competing proton and neutron alignments in neutron-deficient Xe-nuclei

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Abstract High-spin structures of the neutron-deficient 117,118,120 Xe isotopes have been studied by in-beam γ-ray spectroscopic techniques. The final nuclei have been identified by means of charged-particle detectors. Collective rotational bands based on the neutron d 5 2 , g 7 2 and h 11 2 configurations have been identified in 117 Xe. In the even 118 Xe and 120 Xe nuclei several new side bands were observed and the previously known bands were extended. The present level schemes include two positive-parity bands constructed to high spin in 118 Xe, whereas in 120 Xe three such bands were observed. In order to explain these bands, both proton and neutron ( h 11 2 ) 2 alignments, as well as the shape degree of freedom, have to be invoked. The possible occurrence of a γS-band is addressed and a pronounced structural change for more heavy Xe-isotopes is discussed. All negative-parity side bands are interpreted in terms of proton two-quasiparticle excitations. The experimental data are compared with total routhian surface calculations.