Exploration of a modified density dependence in the Skyrme functional

TL;DR

This paper introduces a modified Skyrme-Hartree-Fock functional with integer power density dependence, enhancing theoretical soundness and applicability in nuclear physics calculations.

Contribution

It proposes a new form of density dependence in the Skyrme functional using only integer powers, improving theoretical foundations and applicability.

Findings

Performs at least as well as standard functionals on various nuclear observables

Offers wider applicability for projection schemes and high-density regimes

Maintains comparable accuracy across finite nuclei and nuclear matter

Abstract

A variant of the basic Skyrme-Hartree-Fock (SHF) functional is considered dealing with a new form of density dependence. It employs only integer powers and thus will allow a more sound basis for projection schemes (particle number, angular momentum). We optimize the new functional with exactly the same adjustment strategy as used in an earlier study with a standard Skyrme functional. This allows direct comparisons of the performance of the new functional relative to the standard one. We discuss various observables: bulk properties of finite nuclei, nuclear matter, giant resonances, super-heavy elements, and energy systematics. The new functional performs at least as well as the standard one, but offers a wider range of applicability (e.g. for projection) and more flexibility in the regime of high densities.