The location of the high spin members of the ${}_{}{}^{20}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{Ne}$ $K^{\pi }$${=0\mathrm{}}_4^{+}$ rotational band is discussed by examining the low energy properties of the unique optical potential describing ${}_{}{}^{16}{}_{}{}^{}(\mathit{\alpha }$,α) elastic scattering on a broad range of energies and angles. In particular, the last $J^{\pi }$${=10\mathrm{}}^{+}$ member is predicted to lie at about 29 MeV excitation energy and to be very broad, in contrast with the current expectations. It is suggested that the measurement of the α${+\mathrm{}}^{16}$O fusion excitation function in the relevant energy range could provide a clear signature of the presence of this state. We discuss the implications of our results for the lower spin attributions to this band.

• Received 20 November 1986

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevC.35.1961