Measurements of Nuclear Level Densities and Gamma-Ray Strength Functions and their Interpretations

Abstract

A method to extract primary $\gamma$-ray spectra from particle-$\gamma$ coincidences at excitation energies up to the neutron binding energy is described. From these spectra, the level density and $\gamma$-ray strength function can be determined. From the level density, several thermodynamical quantities are obtained within the microcanonical and canonical ensemble. Also models for the $\gamma$-ray strength function are discussed.

Invited talk at ISINN-10, X International Seminar on Interaction of Neutrons with Nuclei, May 22-25 2002, Dubna, Russia. 8 pages, including 6 figures