Giant M1 resonance in the direct-semidirect model for nucleon radiative capture

The direct-semidirect model for nucleon radiative capture proceeding via giant E1 and E2 resonance states is extended to account for capture through collective M1 excitation. The ²⁰⁸Pb(N, γ₀) and ¹⁴⁰Ce(N, γ₀) reactions are investigated in the 2–10 MeV energy interval. For the M1 and isoscalar E2 neutron capture processes, calculations provide cross section values of the same order of magnitude, as well as comparable effects on γ-ray angular distributions. The model proves to be an appropriate framework for discussing the E1-M1 and E1-E2 interference processes, giving useful suggestions as to effects arising from the presence of the M1 and E2 collectivities.