Pairing gap as a new observable for critical points in the region of A=100

TL;DR

This paper proposes using the pairing gap as a new observable to identify critical point nuclei around A=100, analyzing shape transitions and phase transitional behavior in Mo and Ru isotopes.

Contribution

It introduces the pairing gap as a novel observable for detecting critical points and applies algebraic models to identify candidate nuclei in the A=100 region.

Findings

Significant pairing gap variations at E(5) and X(5) critical points

Identification of new candidate nuclei for shape phase transitions

Application of algebraic models to experimental data

Abstract

This study used the pairing gap to identify nuclei as candidates for critical point symmetry around Z=40 and A=100. Nuclei around A = 100 display complex shape evolution and configuration crossing patterns. We utilized the experimental and algebraic frameworks of the interacting boson model and the newly developed interacting boson-fermion model to study the isotopes of Mo and Ru. The results show significant variations in these quantities across nuclei located at the E(5) and X(5) critical points, analyzed through different observables. We also examined another region that is suitable for a shape phase transition. Furthermore, our findings suggest new candidates for critical points in other phase transitional regions for different isotopic chains.