Possible observation of shape-coexisting configurations in even–even midshell isotones with N = 104: a systematic total Routhian surface calculation

Systematic total Routhian surface calculations for even–even \(N=104\) midshell isotones with \(66\le Z\le 82\) have been carried out based on a more realistic diffuse-surface deformed Woods–Saxon nuclear potential in \((\beta _2, \gamma , \beta _4)\) deformation space, focusing on the rotation-induced shape-coexisting phenomena. As an example and basic test, the oblate property at the ground state in \(^{184}\)Hg is well reproduced and the microscopic origin is analyzed from the single-particle structure. The present calculated results are compared with available experimental information, showing a good agreement. It is systematically found that in this isotonic chain several bands with different shapes (e.g., prolate, oblate and superdeformed prolate bands, seven non-collective band) may show a strong competition and coexisting phenomenon at a certain domain of the rotational frequency.