Di-neutron correlation in light neutron-rich nuclei

Abstract

Using a three-body model with density-dependent contact interaction, we discuss the root mean square distance between the two valence neutrons in $^{11}$Li nuclues as a function of the center of mass of the neutrons relative to the core nucleus $^9$Li. We show that the mean distance takes a pronounced minimum around the surface of the nucleus, indicating a strong surface di-neutron correlation. We demonstrate that the pairing correlation plays an essential role in this behavior. We also discuss the di-neutron structure in the $^8$He nucleus.

A talk given at Franco-Japanese symposium on "New Paradigms in Nuclear Physics", Sep. 29-Oct. 2, 2008, Paris, France