Low-lying levels of 188Re nucleus from γγ-coincidence measurements

Low–high and low–low energy γγ-coincidences, following the image reaction with thermal neutrons, have been measured. Spectra have been recorded in the energy range from 50 to 2600 keV, and from 4500 to 6500 keV. The earlier known 188Re level scheme is corrected and extended up to ∼800 keV excitation energy and 62 levels by including 20 new levels. For 11 levels, the earlier interpretation has been changed. The complete level scheme is presented for up to ∼400 keV energy and spins ⩽5. Core plus two-quasiparticles model calculations have been performed. Some 188Re two-quasiparticle states display features indicating the nuclear shape phase transition from axial-deformation to γ-soft form.