Alpha-like clustering in $^{20}$Ne from a quartetting wave function approach

TL;DR

This paper investigates alpha-like clustering in $^{20}$Ne using a quartetting wave function approach, analyzing the cluster structure, center of mass motion, and the effects of Pauli blocking, with implications for nuclear decay processes.

Contribution

It introduces an improved model for the core nucleus using quasiparticle states and explores the effective potential for quartetting, connecting it to the THSR approach.

Findings

Effective potential for quartet remains nearly constant within the core.

Improved core nucleus modeling with quasiparticle states.

Insights into alpha clustering relevant for nuclear decay processes.

Abstract

Quartetting ($\alpha$-like clustering) occurs in low density matter ($\le 0.03$ fm$^{-3}$) which exists, e.g., at the surface of nuclei. It is of interest for the $\alpha$ preformation to calculate the $\alpha$ decay of heavy nuclei such as $^{212}$Po, but also in light nuclei (e.g., $^{20}$Ne) which shows strong signatures of quartetting. We analyze the intrinsic structure of the $\alpha$-like cluster and the center of mass motion of the quartet, in particular the role of Pauli blocking. The Thomas-Fermi model for the (daughter) core nucleus is improved introducing quasiparticle nucleon states. Calculations performed for harmonic oscillator basis states show that the effective potential for the quartet center of mass motion remains nearly constant within the core nucleus. The relation to the THSR (Tohsaki-Horiuchi-Schuck-R\"opke) approach is discussed.