Level scheme of ⁹²Nb and observation of an oblate collective rotational band

Excited states of 92Nb were investigated using the reactions 82Se(14N, 4n) and 89Y(6Li, 1 p2n). Based on these experimental results, the level scheme was extended abundantly. The structures of both the positive and negative parity states have been compared with shell model calculations using the SNET interaction. Potential energy surface calculation using the configuration-constrained method was performed to study a rotational-like band in 92Nb, and possible configuration of the band head has been discussed. The calculation indicates that it may be an oblate collective rotational band.