Smooth Termination of Rotational Bands in 62Zn: Evidence for a Loss of Collectivity

Two sets of strongly coupled rotational bands have been identified in Zn-62. These bands have been observed up to the terminating states of their respective configurations. Lifetime measurements indicate that the transition quadrupole moments in these bands decrease as termination is approached. These results establish the first terminating states of rotational bands in the A similar to 60 mass region and confirm the predicted loss of collectivity associated with smooth band termination.