Structure of $^{43}$P and $^{42}$Si in a two-level shape-coexistence model

Abstract

Exclusive cross sections for the 43 P(−1p) 42 Si reaction to the lowest 0 + and 2 + states, measured at NSCL with GRETINA and the S800, are interpreted in terms of a two-level mixing (collective) model of oblate and prolate co-existing shapes. Using the formalism developed for deformed nuclei we calculate the spectroscopic amplitudes and exclusive cross-sections in the strong coupling limit, where for 43 P the schematic wavefunction includes the coupling of the Nilsson [211] 1 2 proton orbit. Good agreement with the experimental data is obtained when the amplitude of the oblate configuration is 80%, suggesting that both nuclei are predominantly oblate, in line with theoretical expectations.