The shape phase transition(SPT)theory of nuclear structure evolution may further deepen and expand our recognition and understanding of the principles underlying phenomena associated with complex nuclear structures.In this work,the basic concepts of nuclear SPTs and the current research status of some core issues in this field are reviewed based on the boson algebraic model framework.The topics include shape phase diagram,order parameters of phase transitions,dynamical symmetry at the critical point,phase coexistence,and Jacobi-type transitions.A summary of further developments of the SPT theory and some unresolved issues that need to be addressed is also provided.
shape phase transitioninteracting boson modeleffective order parametertriple pointEuclidean symmetry