Instantaneous shape sampling: A model for the gamma-absorption cross section of transitional nuclei

The influence of the quadrupole shape fluctuations on the dipole vibrations in transitional nuclei is investigated in the framework of the instantaneous-Shape Sampling (ISS) Model, which combines the Interacting Boson Model for the slow collective quadrupole motion with the Random Phase Approximation for the rapid dipole vibrations. Coupling to the complex background configurations is taken into account by folding the results with a Lorentzian with energy dependent width (collisional damping CD).
The low-energy energy portion of the gamma absorption cross section, which is important for photo-nuclear processes, is studied for the isotop series of Kr, Xe, Ba, and Sm. The experimental cross sections are well reproduced. The low-energy dipole strength is determined by the Landau fragmentation of the dipole strength and its redistribution caused by the shape fluctuations. CD only wipes out fluctuations of the absorption cross section, generating the smooth energy dependence observed in experiment. In the case of semi magical nuclei, shallow pygmy resonances are found in correspondence with experiment.