Clustering in Light Nuclei with Configuration Interaction Approaches

• Other Authors: Kravvaris, Konstantinos (author)
• Format: Others
• Language: English; English
• Published: Florida State University
• Subjects: Nuclear physics
• Online Access: http://purl.flvc.org/fsu/fd/2018_Su_Kravvaris_fsu_0071E_14611

The formation of sub-structures within an atomic nucleus, appropriately termed nuclear clustering, is one of the core questions of nuclear many-body physics. In this thesis, we put forward a new method for the study of nuclear clustering relying on the completely microscopic Configuration Interaction approach. We construct reaction cluster channels in a Harmonic Oscillator many-body basis that respect the symmetries of the Hamiltonian, are fully antisymmetrized, and carry a separable and controlled Center of Mass component. Such channels are then used to explore cluster signatures in Configuration Interaction many-body wavefunctions. The Resonating Group Method is then applied, utilizing the reaction channels as a basis to capture the essential cluster characteristics of the system. We investigate the emergence of nuclear clustering in 2α, 2α+n, 2α+2n and 3α systems using a No Core Shell Model approach from first principles, and traditional Shell Model studies of clustering in heavier nuclei. === A Dissertation submitted to the Department of Physics in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. === Summer Semester 2018. === May 11, 2018. === Includes bibliographical references. === Alexander Volya, Professor Directing Dissertation; David Kopriva, University Representative; Ingo Weidenhoever, Committee Member; Simon Capstick, Committee Member; Laura Reina, Committee Member.