Mapping of a New Deformation Region around ^{62}Ti

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Physics
• Atomic Physics

Background:

• Neutron-rich isotopes near the neutron number (N) = 40 represent a region of significant nuclear structure interest.
• Understanding nuclear masses is crucial for nuclear astrophysics and models of nuclear stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform the first direct mass measurements of specific neutron-rich scandium, titanium, and vanadium isotopes.
• To investigate the influence of nuclear structure effects, such as the Jahn-Teller effect, on nuclear masses in this region.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the time-of-flight magnetic-rigidity technique at the RIKEN RI Beam Factory.
• Measured the atomic mass excesses of Sc isotopes (58-60), Ti isotopes (60-62), and V isotopes (62-64).

Main Results:

• The atomic mass excesses for ^{58-60}Sc, ^{60-62}Ti, and ^{62-64}V were determined for the first time.
• Observed an increase in two-neutron separation energies near ^{62}Ti, indicating enhanced binding.
• Evidence suggests the Jahn-Teller effect influences the masses of Ti isotopes around N=40.

Conclusions:

• The Jahn-Teller effect plays a role in stabilizing nuclei in this region, with stabilization developing below chromium isotopes.
• The observed systematics indicate that ^{62}Ti is situated near the peak of this Jahn-Teller stabilization.
• These findings contribute to a refined understanding of nuclear forces and structure in exotic nuclei.