Correlations between deformation parameters from (α,α') experiments

For the systems 232Th, 234, 236, 238U + α' a coupled channels analysis shows that there exist definite correlations between the deformations attributed to the different parts of the transition potential. In spite of the interdependence between charge and potential deformations, a selfconsistent treatment of the data yields unique results for the quadrupole deformations. In principle, the same holds for separately deformed real and imaginary parts of the nuclear transition potential. But the correlations observed and secondary effects make it uncertain to determine more than the sign of β6. (orig.)