On oblate-prolate transition in the ground state rotational band of light mercury isotopes

The transition from an oblate to a prolate shape in the ground state band of even mass Hg isotopes and in the ground states of the chain of odd mass Hg isotopes are studied. The shape is found by minimizing the deformation energy which is calculated by means of Strutinsky's shell correction method. The rotational energy corresponds to the axialsymmetric rotator. The moment of inertia is calculated with the help of the cranking model. Pairing and hexadecupole deformation are included. The results are in good agreement with the available experimental data.