We describe a new implementation of the quasiparticle random-phase approximation (QRPA) in axially symmetric deformed nuclei with Skyrme and volume-pairing energy-density functionals. After using a variety of tests to demonstrate the accuracy of the code in ${}^{24,26}\mathrm{Mg}$ and ${}^{16}\mathrm{O}$, we report the first fully self-consistent application of the Skyrme QRPA to a heavy deformed nucleus, calculating strength distributions for several $K^{\pi }$ in ${}^{172}\mathrm{Yb}$. We present energy-weighted sums, properties of $\gamma$-vibrational and low-energy $K^{\pi }=0^{+}$ states, and the complete isovector $E1$ strength function. The QRPA calculation reproduces the properties of the low-lying $2^{+}$ states as well or better than it typically does in spherical nuclei.

• Received 31 May 2010

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevC.82.034326