Nuclear shape transition of Th isotope at fission limits: a fourier shape parametrization approach

Abstract

The deformation energy landscape of ²³²Th nucleus along its fission path is investigated using the Lublin-Strasbourg Drop (LSD) model with the Fourier shape parametrization. The nuclear surface is represented by a truncated Fourier series in terms of collective coordinates associated with elongation (q₂), mass asymmetry (q₃), and neck formation (q₄). This parametrization offers enhanced flexibility in describing fission pathways and the complex shape transitions of the thorium isotope up to the scission point. Studying fission characteristics in actinide nuclei such as ²³²Th is crucial to advance our understanding of nuclear energy production and structure.