Identification of one-phonon and two-phonon γ-vibrational bands in odd-Z 103Nb nucleus

Abstract Collective bands in the neutron-rich 103 Nb nucleus have been investigated by measuring prompt γ -rays following spontaneous fission of 252 Cf. Three new bands have been identified. The band based on the 716.8 keV level is proposed as a candidate for the K π = 9 / 2 + one-phonon γ -vibrational band, and the band built on the 1282.1 keV level is proposed as a candidate for the K π = 13 / 2 + two-phonon γ -vibrational band. The two-phonon γ -vibrational band is the first such band identified in odd- Z nuclei.