Charge distribution studies in the epi-cadmium neutron induced fission of ²³⁸Pu

Studies on charge distribution have been carried out in the epi-cadmium neutron induced fission of ²³⁸Pu for the first time. Experimentally fractional cumulative yields (FCY) and independent yields (IY) of various fission products have been measured by using an off-line γ-ray spectrometric technique. From the FCY values, the charge distribution parameters such as the isobaric width parameter (σ_Z), most probable charge (Z_P) and the charge polarization (ΔΖ_EXPT) as a function of fragment mass were obtained. On the other hand, from the measured IY values, isotopic width parameter (σ_A), the most probable mass (A_P) and the elemental yields (Y_Z) of Sn, Sb, Te, I, Xe, Cs, Ba, La, Ce and Pr were determined by using a non-linear fit. From the Y_Z values, the proton even-odd effect (δ_p) was obtained for the first time. The isobaric and isotopic charge distribution parameters in the ²³⁸Pu(n_f, f) reaction were compared with the similar data in the thermal neutron induced fission of ²³⁸Pu and other actinides to examine the role of excitation energy.