title: Review of metastable states in heavy nuclei.
abstract: The structure of nuclear isomeric states is reviewed in the context of their role in contemporary nuclear physics research. Emphasis is given to high-spin isomers in heavy nuclei, with [Formula: see text]. The possibility to exploit isomers to study some of the most exotic nuclei is a recurring theme. In spherical nuclei, the role of octupole collectivity is discussed in detail, while in deformed nuclei the limitations of the K quantum number are addressed. Isomer targets and isomer beams are considered, along with applications related to energy storage, astrophysics, medicine, and experimental advances.
authors.affiliation: Department of Nuclear Physics, R.S.P.E. Australian National University, Canberra, A.C.T. 0200, Australia.
authors.forename: G D
authors.initials: GD
authors.lastname: Dracoulis
authors.forename: P M
authors.initials: PM
authors.lastname: Walker
authors.forename: F G
authors.initials: FG
authors.lastname: Kondev