Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The evolution of shape in the even-even zirconium (Zr) isotopes has been the subject of study for many years. However, the odd-mass isotopes have not been investigated as extensively due to limited experimental accessibility and computational challenges. This work, employing the interacting boson-fermion model with configuration mixing, examines the effect of rapid shape evolution and normal-intruder configuration crossing, both identified as quantum phase transitions, alongside evolution in single particle energies, on the positive-parity spectrum of odd-mass 93 -- 103 Zr isotopes. Calculated energy levels, magnetic moments, B ( E 2 ) values, and quadrupole moments are compared to experimental data, showing good agreement. This agreement emphasizes the unique role of the odd neutron in the data. The special case of Zr 99 , which lies near the critical point of both quantum phase transitions, is also addressed, offering a new interpretation of the 7 / 2 1 + isomeric state and the occurrence of the type II shell evolution, in light of recent debates.
Source: Physical Review Research
Author: N. Gavrielov
Language: English
Subfield: Nuclear and High Energy Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,625
Funder: Horizon 2020
Award: G617754422
OpenAlex ID: W4409731579