A proton pairing isomer in 174Hf: Reinterpretation of data and support for the split prolate–oblate pairing approximation for deformed nuclei

Abstract The available data on the even–even isotope 174 Hf are reinterpreted to conclude that low-lying 0 2 + level, usually regarded as a “β vibration”, is actually proton (2p–2 h) excitation known Pairing Isomer. This first identification of Isomer based Proton Nilsson Orbitals. Its demonstrates Isomers can exist anywhere in Nuclear Chart if positioning Fermi Surface favourable with respect relevant orbitals.