# Alpha particle clusters and their condensation in nuclear systems

## TL;DR

This paper reviews alpha clustering and condensation phenomena in nuclear systems, focusing on the THSR model and its applications to states like the Hoyle state in carbon-12 and alpha gas states in other nuclei.

## Contribution

It provides a comprehensive review of alpha condensation in nuclear matter and evaluates the THSR model's effectiveness in describing various alpha cluster states.

## Key findings

- The THSR wave function successfully describes the Hoyle state in 12C.
- Alpha gas states are identified in nuclei like 16O and 13C.
- The alpha container model offers insights into alpha clustering phenomena.

## Abstract

In this article we review the present status of alpha clustering in nuclear systems. First of all, an important aspect is condensation in nuclear matter. Second, the alpha container model, recently been proposed by Tohsaki-Horiuchi-Schuck-Roepke (THSR), will be outlined and the ensuing condensate aspect of the Hoyle state at 7.65 MeV in 12C will be investigated in some detail. After 15 years since the proposal of the alpha condensation concept a critical assessment of this idea will be given. Alpha gas states in other nuclei like 16O and 13C will be considered. The THSR wave function can also describe configurations of one alpha particle on top of a doubly magic core. The cases of 20Ne and 212Po will be investigated.