Alpha particle condensation in nuclear systems

Peter Schuck (Orsay+Grenoble)

We have re-interpreted the Hoyle state in 12C as an almost independent gas of three alpha particles which move with their c.o.m. in relative S-states, i.e. they are condensed in this state.  A specific ansatz for a condensate wave function was used.  Simultaneously we conjectured that such condensates should also exist in heavier n alpha self-conjugate nuclei.  In 16O the 6-th 0+ state at 15.1 MeV seems to be a strong candidate for an n=4 alpha condensate state.  Simultaneously we also studied alpha particle condensation in infinite matter, eventually relevant for compact star physics.  I will dwell on the strong differences between quartet and pair condensation.

(Seminarraum II)