Strong correlation and saturation of E2 and M1 transition strengths in even-even rare-earth nuclei.

In heavy deformed even-even nuclei the orbital {ital M}1 strength below 4 MeV excitation, the so-called scissors mode,'' shows a striking correlation with the {ital E}2 strength to the first excited 2{sup +} states. A saturation effect, common to both {ital E}2 and {ital M}1 transitions, is observed before midshell. The correlation and the saturation effect are discussed.