Decay of 96Tc as a test of statistical methods of spin assignment

Abstract

Statistical methods of spin assignment have been tested on the 96Tc nucleus populated in the (α, n) reaction. Simple model calculations reproduce two intensity-spin correlations and confirm that the energy corresponding to the maximum in the excitation function and the ratio of gamma-ray intensities obtained at two beam energies both show smooth and strong spin dependence. These correlations are found to be marginally influenced by the yrast and non-yrast character of the levels and are not influenced by level-excitation energy. Contribution from pre-equilibrium reactions and competition between neutron and gamma decay channels may be responsible for minor discrepancies between the calculated and experimental excitation functions.