Search for superdeformation effects in Gd144

Quasicontinuum -decay studies of Gd144 have been performed using the Sn120(28Si, 4n)reaction at 125, 135, 145, and 155 MeV bombarding energies. Angular distribution and multiplicity measurements have been done at the above energies. At 145 MeV bombarding energy, a lifetime measurement has also been performed. Although a collective behavior has been observed, the present data do not give evidence for population of superdeformed rotational bands. Theoretical interpretation using the cranking model with the Woods-Saxon field is given. The effects of temperature and pairing on the superdeformed configuration are discussed; superdeformation effects are predicted to disappear below I6070 Latin small letter h with stroke when temperature exceeds 500 keV.