Nuclear structure and decay properties of Nd isotopes

Abstract

Using the Hartree–Fock–Bogoliubov mean-field theory, the ground-state structural and decay properties of Nd isotopes are investigated from the proton-rich side up to the neutron drip-line. Quantities such as binding energies per nucleon, one and two-neutron separation energies, rms charge radii, and quadrupole deformation parameters have been calculated. Compared with the relativistic mean-field results, the present calculations are in better agreement with the available experimental data. The results show clearly the signature of a shape transition at [Formula: see text] and an abrupt increase in the deformation near the neutron drip-line. Further, the possible decay modes like alpha, cluster and [Formula: see text]-decay are analyzed in a unified fission model and phenomenological formulas. Overall, a good agreement is achieved between the calculated and experimental [Formula: see text]-values and half-lives wherever available. The most likely decay modes are thus identified throughout the isotopic chain.