Configurations and level structure of Po-215

The level structure of Po-215 has been studied by observing the alpha decay of Rn-219 and coincident gamma rays and electrons. In addition to some new levels, some additional tentative spin and parities are observed. Quite di fferent alpha decay hindrance factors make possible the assignment of pi(h( 9/2))(2)nu(g(9/2))(5) plus residual reflection asymmetric configurations to one set of states and pi(h(9/2))(2)nu(g(9/2))(4)i(11/2) plus residual conf igurations to another set of states. These configuration assignments are fu rther studied by a comparison of the systematics of the Po-215 levels with those of neighboring odd neutron nuclei. In this way the nature of the coll apse of the reflection asymmetric configurations into the less degenerate s hell model configurations can be studied. [S0556-2813(99)03602-X].