Constraining the 0{\nu}2{\beta} matrix elements by nuclear structure observables

TL;DR

This paper reviews experimental techniques and data related to nuclear structure properties that influence the calculation of nuclear matrix elements crucial for neutrinoless double beta decay detection.

Contribution

It summarizes experimental methods and data on ground-state wave functions, valence orbital occupancies, and pairing correlations relevant to nuclear matrix element calculations.

Findings

Experimental data on nuclear ground states inform matrix element calculations.

Certain nuclear structure aspects significantly impact neutrinoless double beta decay predictions.

Review of techniques enhances understanding of nuclear influences on decay processes.

Abstract

The discovery that neutrinos have finite rest mass has led to renewed interest in neutrinoless double beta decay. The development of large-scale experiments to search for neutrinoless double beta decay has increased the probability of a credible observation of the process in the near future. The reliability of calculations of the associated nuclear matrix elements is likely soon to become a critical issue. In this paper experimental techniques that access properties of the ground-state wave functions of double beta decay candidates, the occupancies of valence single- particle orbitals and pairing correlations, are summarized and the experimental data for candidate nuclei are reviewed. The results are discussed in relation to questions concerning which aspects of nuclear structure may play an important role in determining the nuclear matrix elements for neutrinoless double beta decay.