Structure of Superheavy Nuclei Along Element 115 Decay Chains

Abstract

A recent high-resolution $α$, $X$-ray, and $γ$-ray coincidence-spectroscopy experiment offered first glimpse of excitation schemes of isotopes along $α$-decay chains of $Z=115$. To understand these observations and to make predictions about shell structure of superheavy nuclei below $^{288}115$, we employ two complementary mean-field models: self-consistent Skyrme Energy Density Functional approach and the macroscopic-microscopic Nilsson model. We discuss the spectroscopic information carried by the new data. In particular, candidates for the experimentally observed $E1$ transitions in $^{276}$Mt are proposed. We find that the presence and nature of low-energy $E1$ transitions in well-deformed nuclei around $Z=110, N=168$ strongly depends on the strength of the spin-orbit coupling; hence, it provides an excellent constraint on theoretical models of superheavy nuclei. To clarify competing theoretical scenarios, an experimental search for $E1$ transitions in odd-$A$ systems $^{275,277}$Mt, $^{275}$Hs, and $^{277}$Ds is strongly recommended.

9 pages, 8 figures, 6 table; accepted for publication in Physical Review C