Covariant Density Functional Theory in Nuclear Physics and Astrophysics

TL;DR

This paper reviews how covariant density functional theory helps understand neutron-rich matter in neutron stars, bridging nuclear physics and astrophysics through a unified theoretical framework.

Contribution

It highlights the role of nuclear density functional theory as a comprehensive approach connecting finite nuclei to neutron stars.

Findings

Density functional theory provides insights into neutron-rich matter.

Theoretical models complement observational and experimental data.

Unified framework links nuclear physics with astrophysical phenomena.

Abstract

How does subatomic matter organize itself? Neutron stars are cosmic laboratories uniquely poised to answer this fundamental question that lies at the heart of nuclear science. Newly commissioned rare isotope facilities, telescopes operating across the entire electromagnetic spectrum, and ever more sensitive gravitational wave detectors will probe the properties of neutron-rich matter with unprecedented precision over an enormous range of densities. Yet, a coordinated effort between observation, experiment, and theoretical research is of paramount importance for realizing the full potential of these investments. Theoretical nuclear physics provides valuable insights into the properties of neutron-rich matter in regimes that are not presently accessible to experiment or observation. In particular, nuclear density functional theory is likely the only tractable framework that can bridge the entire nuclear landscape by connecting finite nuclei to neutron stars. This compelling connection is the main scope of the present review.