Gross theory of nuclear masses and radii

A simple analytic mass-formula is reviewed, which contains a Droplet Model as its smooth part and a shell correction term constructed by bunching the smooth single-particle level density of a potential-well appropriate to the size of the respective nucleus. A fit of the 51 adjustable parameters is performed to 1312 experimental nuclear masses. Predictions are compared to several experimental data: the newly measured Na and Rb masses, the isobaric mass parabola properties, the quadrupole moments, the nuclear radii, and the Hg alpha -decay energies. Further specific modifications are discussed concerning: 1) a shell correction to the nuclear radii, 2) a single- particle level density; and 3) a deformation dependence of the bunched level density inferred from microscopic calculations. (34 refs).