The evolution of collectivity in nuclei and the proton–neutron interaction

Abstract

Abstract We survey the evolution of nuclear structure with N and Z, focusing on collective behavior and its relation to the underlying single particle configurations, and their interactions. We exploit a number of complementary observables, from multiple perspectives, and interpret the observed behavior in terms of simple models. The paper includes a discussion of key observables, how to evaluate theories, and some of the dangers of statistical tests. We conclude with a discussion of schemes to predict the properties of unknown nuclei, founded on the importance of valence proton–neutron interactions, and correlate empirical values for these interactions with the onset of collectivity and deformation.