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Deviations from the Porter-Thomas Distribution due to Nonstatistical γ Decay below the ^{150}Nd Neutron Separation

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This study introduces a new method using nuclear resonance fluorescence to analyze partial transition widths in even-even nuclei. Findings reveal deviations from the Porter-Thomas distribution, suggesting non-statistical gamma decay effects in Nd-150.

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Area of Science:

  • Nuclear Physics
  • Quantum Mechanics

Background:

  • Understanding nuclear decay processes is crucial for nuclear structure physics.
  • The Porter-Thomas distribution is a standard model for partial transition widths.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop and apply a novel method for studying fluctuations in partial transition widths.
  • To investigate the validity of the Porter-Thomas distribution in specific nuclear systems.

Main Methods:

  • Utilizing nuclear resonance fluorescence experiments with quasimonochromatic, linearly polarized photon beams.
  • Analyzing the average branching ratios of gamma decays from J=1 states to the ground and 2_{1}^{+} states in even-even nuclei.
  • Comparing experimental results with theoretical predictions based on the chi-squared distribution.

Main Results:

  • A constant average branching ratio of 0.490(16) for gamma decays from 1^{-} states in ^{150}Nd between 5 and 7 MeV was observed.
  • The derived degree of freedom (ν=1.93(12)) deviates significantly from the value required by the Porter-Thomas distribution (ν=1).
  • Non-statistical effects in gamma decay behavior were quantified, ranging from 9.4(10)% to 94(10)%.

Conclusions:

  • The study rejects the universal validity of the Porter-Thomas distribution for partial transition widths in the studied energy range.
  • Observed deviations indicate the presence and significance of non-statistical effects in nuclear gamma decay.
  • The developed method provides a new tool for probing nuclear structure and reaction dynamics.