First observation of high-spin states in the N = 83 nucleus 142Pr

High-spin states of the N = 83 nucleus 142Pr have been observed for the first time using the 138Ba(7Li, 3n) reaction at a beam energy of 38 MeV. A total of 40 new transitions and 22 new levels have been identified, leading to a considerable extension of the level scheme of 142Pr. The experimental level structures of 142Pr are compared with its neighboring N = 83 isotones 144Pm and 146Eu. Shell model calculations employing the jj56pna interaction reproduce the experimental findings and provide guidance in the interpretation of the observed high-spin level structures.