Transition probabilities in the X(5) candidate Ba122

To investigate the possible X(5) character of Ba122, suggested by the ground-state band energy pattern, the lifetimes of the lowest yrast states of Ba122 have been measured, via the recoil distance Doppler-shift method. The relevant levels have been populated by using the Cd108(O16,2n)Ba122 and the Sn112(C13,3n)Ba122 reactions. The B(E2) values deduced in the present work are compared to the predictions of the X(5) model and to calculations performed in the framework of the IBA-1 and IBA-2 models.