γ--γ angular correlations of transitions in 142Ce

Angular correlation measurements have been performed on 12 direct and 4 skip cascades in 142Ce, all involving the 641-keV 2+ → 0+ transition. The 142Ce levels were populated in the β- decay of fission-product 142La produced as a decay product of 142Xe at the TRISTAN on-line isotope-separator facility. Spin-parity assignments or preferences have been made for all 13 excited levels below 3 MeV previously known to be populated in this decay. In addition, a new 0+ level is established at 2030 keV in 142Ce. These levels are described in terms of vibrations of a spherical nucleus. An alternate interpretation in terms of quasirotational bands is also presented