The decay scheme of neutron-rich ${}_{}{}^{126}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{Cd}$ is reported for the first time. Sources of mass-separated ${}_{}{}^{126}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{Cd}$ were produced using an in-beam target ion source combination. The ${}_{}{}^{126}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{Cd}$ half-life was measured to be 0.506±0.015 sec. Of 11 $\gamma$ rays observed, 10 were placed in a ${}_{}{}^{126}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{In}$ level scheme consisting of 6 excited states at 260, 308, 555, 585, 626, and 688 keV. The level density of low-spin excited states is less than that for ${}_{}{}^{124}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{In}$, and most of our levels are describable in terms of a single proton hole coupled to a single neutron hole. Surprisingly, most of the $\beta$ strength feeds one level in ${}_{}{}^{126}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{In}$ at 688 keV.

RADIOACTIVITY ${}_{}{}^{126}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{Cd}$ [from ${}_{}{}^{235}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{U}(n, f)$]; measured $T_{\frac{1}{2}}$, $E_{\gamma }$, $I_{\gamma }$, $\gamma \gamma$-coin, Ge(Li) detectors; ${}_{}{}^{126}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{In}$ deduced levels, $J$, $\pi$, $log\mathrm{ft}$. Mass separated ${}_{}{}^{126}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{Cd}$ activity.

• Received 17 May 1978

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevC.18.1463