Stringent tests of shell model calculations in f_p Shell Nuclei ^46.48Ti and ^50,52Cr from measurements of g factors and B(E2) values

Measurements of magnetic moments and lifetimes of 2₁⁺ and 4₁⁺ states of ^46,48Ti and ^50,52Cr were performed with high accuracy via projectile Coulomb excitation and the technique of transient magnetic fields. The high quality of the data allows for the first time to establish stringent constraints on large scale shell model calculations. Whereas the global behavior of the data is well explained by full f_p shell model calculations, distinct deviations in the g factors and B(E2) values of ^46,48Ti from theoretical predictions can be attributed to excitations of the ⁴⁰Ca core. This suggestion is supported by recent Monte Carlo calculations which provide evidence that ⁴⁸Ca is a better inert core.