Strong correlation and saturation ofE2 andM1 transition strengths in even-even rare-earth nuclei

In heavy deformed even-even nuclei the orbital M1 strength below 4 MeV excitation, the so-called ``scissors mode,'' shows a striking correlation with the E2 strength to the first excited 2⁺ states. A saturation effect, common to both E2 and M1 transitions, is observed before midshell. The correlation and the saturation effect are discussed.