Critical survey of beta-decay energies and nuclear masses for the neutron-rich Rb and Cs isotopes

Recent experimental results of beta-decay energies for very neutron- rich Rb and Cs isotopes with mass number 94<or=A<or=98 and 142<or=A<or =146, respectively, are presented. From these Q/sub beta /-values, mass excesses are derived for the nuclei studied, which are compared with those obtained in direct mass determinations. The advantages and difficulties inherent in both experimental methods are discussed. Finally, the information which can be drawn from a systematic study of beta-decay energies to gain new insight into nuclear structure effects are mentioned. (21 refs).