Multiple shape coexistence in the nucleus $^{80}$Zr

TL;DR

This study investigates the complex shape coexistence in the nucleus 80Zr using advanced nuclear modeling techniques, revealing multiple low-energy states with different shapes that do not significantly affect its decay properties.

Contribution

The paper applies state-of-the-art beyond mean field methods with symmetry restoration and configuration mixing to explore shape coexistence in 80Zr, providing detailed insights into its low-lying energy spectrum.

Findings

Identifies five 0+ states below 2.25 MeV with different shapes.

Finds multiple rotational and gamma bands built on these states.

States do not significantly alter the beta-decay half-life.

Abstract

We study the low-lying energy spectrum of the rp-process waiting point nucleus 80Zr with state-of-the-art beyond mean field methods with the Gogny D1S interaction. Symmetry restoration and configuration mixing of axial and triaxial shapes are included in the calculations. Five 0+ states corresponding to different nuclear shapes are obtained below 2.25 MeV and several rotational and {\gamma}- bands built upon them are identified. Nevertheless, these states do not modify the {\beta}-decay half-life having a negligible effect in the rp-process. A good agreement with the available experimental data is obtained.