Decay experiments to test beta - and gamma -strength functions

The decays of six delayed-proton precursors have been studied with the particle-X-ray coincidence technique, yielding a more or less detailed view of level widths in the proton emitting nuclei. The results lead to a reevaluation of the techniques for calculating level densities and average gamma-decay widths in exotic nuclei. With these aspects of beta -delayed proton decay specified, the proton energy spectra of a number of precursors (65<or=A<or=121) are examined for evidence of structure in the beta -strength functions. Overall, the 'gross theory' beta -strength functions are remarkably reliable, although some systematic deviations are observed in the xenon and tellurium isotopes. (30 refs).