Nilsson-pairing model for double beta decay

The double beta decay process for ⁴⁸Ca and ⁷⁶Ge is considered. The inhibition of the process for ⁴⁸Ca, previously considered by Khodel, is discussed in terms of a K selection rule. The large value found for the ⁷⁶Ge transition to ⁷⁶Se, by Haxton, Stephenson, and Strottman, is here illustrated by a pairing calculation using asymptotic Nilsson wave functions. The coherence of the process is clearly shown in this model. The contribution of high lying intermediate states, especially due to delta particle-nucleon hole states, is discussed.RADIOACTIVITY Double beta decay, pairing correlations, delta admixtures.