Symmetry energies, pairing energies, and mass equations

Symmetry and pairing energies of atomic nuclei are related to the differences between the excitation energies of isobaric analog states in the same nucleus. Numerous such excitation energies are known experimentally. In addition, a comprehensive global set can be deduced from the available experimental masses by applying Coulomb energy corrections. Replacing the experimental mass data by available theoretical mass predictions as basis for this procedure to extract symmetry and pairing energies makes it possible to directly compare theoretical and experimental quantities. These comparisons reflect upon the goodness or possible shortcomings of the respective mass equation since symmetry energies are related to the curvature of the nuclear mass surface. A discussion of eleven selected mass equations or procedures for reproducing experimental masses and extrapolating into regions of unknown nuclei is presented.  2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. PACS: 21.10.Dr; 21.10.Hw; 21.30.Fe; 21.60.-n