Superheavy nuclei in self-consistent mean-field models

The extrapolation of self-consistent nuclear mean-field models to the regio n of superheavy elements is discussed within the framework of Skyrme-Hartre e-Fock and relativistic mean-field models. We present results for spherical and deformed shell closures for a large number of current parameterization s and potential energy surfaces of a few selected nuclei. We find conflicti ng predictions for the next major shell closures which are related to the e ffective mass and spin-orbit interaction. A critical examination of the per formance of the various models with respect to the key features important f or superheavy nuclei prefers Z = 120, N = 172 to be the doubly-magic superh eavy nucleus.