Cluster effects in the structure of heavy nuclei are considered. The properties of the states of the alternating parity bands in Ra, Th, U and Pu isotopes are analyzed within a cluster model. The model is based on the assumption that cluster type shapes are produced by the motion of the nuclear system in the mass asymmetry coordinate. The results of calculations of the spin dependence of the parity splitting and of the electric multipole transition moments are in agreement with the experimental data.

PACS numbers: 21.60.Ev, 21.60.Gx