Abstract
We report a measurement of a new high spin state at 22.4(2) MeV in which fits very well to the predicted (ground state) rotational band of an oblate equilateral triangular spinning top with a symmetry characterized by the sequence , , , , with almost degenerate and (parity doublet) states. Such a symmetry was observed in triatomic molecules, and it is observed here for the first time in nuclear physics. We discuss a classification of other rotation-vibration bands in such as the () Hoyle band and the () bending mode band and suggest measurements in search of the predicted (“missing”) states that may shed new light on clustering in and light nuclei. In particular, the observation (or nonobservation) of the predicted (“missing”) states in the Hoyle band will allow us to conclude the geometrical arrangement of the three alpha particles composing the Hoyle state at 7.654 MeV in .
- Received 11 March 2014
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.113.012502
© 2014 American Physical Society
Synopsis
Carbon-12 Caught in a Triangle
Published 30 June 2014
The discovery of a new excited state in carbon-12 hints at this nucleus’s triangular symmetry.
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