The possibility is discussed that the observed energy dependence of the real part of the optical potential in ${}_{}{}^{16}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{O}$-${}_{}{}^{16}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{O}$ elastic scattering arises from rotation of nuclei induced by their interaction. An estimate indicates that the effect may have the required magnitude.

• Received 20 December 1971

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.28.371