QCD sum rule approach to Okamoto-Nolen-Schiffer anomaly

TL;DR

This paper introduces a QCD-based charge symmetry breaking energy density functional to address the Okamoto-Nolen-Schiffer anomaly, providing a microscopic explanation for mirror nuclei energy differences.

Contribution

It develops a novel framework linking QCD low-energy constants to charge symmetry breaking in nuclear energy density functionals, resolving a longstanding anomaly.

Findings

Successfully explains mirror nuclei energy differences

Resolves the Okamoto-Nolen-Schiffer anomaly within uncertainties

Demonstrates effectiveness on multiple nuclear pairs

Abstract

A new framework is introduced to connect between a charge symmetry breaking (CSB) energy density functional (EDF) and the low-energy constants derived from quantum chromodynamics (QCD). By constructing a QCD-based CSB EDF, this method provides new insights into the Okamoto-Nolen-Schiffer anomaly, a long-standing puzzle in the energy differences of mirror nuclei that lacks a robust microscopic explanation. Using examples such as $ {}^{17} \mathrm{F} $-$ {}^{17} \mathrm{O} $, $ {}^{15} \mathrm{O} $-$ {}^{15} \mathrm{N} $, $ {}^{41} \mathrm{Sc} $-$ {}^{41} \mathrm{Ca} $, and $ {}^{39} \mathrm{Ca} $-$ {}^{39} \mathrm{K} $, we demonstrate that the proposed interaction effectively resolves the anomaly within the range of theoretical uncertainties.