Linear polarization of γ rays following spontaneous fission of 252Cf

Abstract Linear polarization of γ rays following spontaneous fission of 252 Cf has been measured for the first time. Results obtained for transitions in even-even fission-product nuclei agree with the previously reported values, obtained by other methods. A high quality Compton polarimeter combined with efficient γ detector systems may offer a convenient tool to determine multipolarities of γ transitions in the nuclei produced in spontaneous fission.