The rotation-vibration structure of ¹²C

The newly measured high spin J^π 5^- state at 22.4(2) MeV in ¹²C reported in this conference, fits very well to the predicted (ground state) rotational band of an oblate equilateral triangular spinning top with a D3h symmetry characterized by the sequence of states: 0⁺, 2⁺, 3^- 4^±, 5^- with almost degenerate 4⁺ and 4^- (parity doublet) states. Such a D3h symmetry was observed in triatomic molecules, and it is observed here for the first time in nuclear physics. We discuss a classification of other rotation-vibration bands in ¹²C such as the (0⁺) Hoyle band and the (1^-) bending mode band and suggest measurements in search of the predicted ("missing") states that may shed new light on clustering in ¹²C and light nuclei. In particular, the observation (or non observation) of the predicted ("missing") states in the Hoyle band will allow us to conclude the geometrical arrangement of the three alpha particles composing the Hoyle state at 7.654 MeV in ¹² C.