Coexistence of Reflection Asymmetric and Symmetric Shapes in $^{144}\mathrm{Ba}$
Level structures in the neutron-rich $^{144}\mathrm{Ba}$ nucleus have been reinvestigated by measuring prompt gamma rays in the spontaneous fission of $^{252}\mathrm{Cf}$. The previous $s = +1$ octupole band structure with reflection asymmetric shape has been expanded, and a side quadrupole band structure based on a $3^+$ state with reflection symmetric shape is identified. Thus, the results show the coexistence of reflection asymmetric and symmetric shapes in $^{144}\mathrm{Ba}$. This is a first identification of such a shape coexistence structure in a nuclear structure. Finally, the other structural characteristics are discussed.
144Ba↗