Eur. Phys. J. A (2006) 30: 333-342
https://doi.org/10.1140/epja/i2006-10127-4

Dynamics and Thermodynamics with Nuclear Degrees of Freedom

Small fermionic systems: The common methods and challenges

¹ IFIC (CSIC-Universitad de Valencia), Apdo. 22085, E-46071, Valencia, Spain
² Institut für Theoretische Physik, Universität Erlangen, Staudstrasse 7, D-91058, Erlangen, Germany
³ Laboratoire Physique Théorique, Université Paul Sabatier, 118 Route de Narbonne, F-31062, Toulouse cedex, France

^* e-mail: suraud@irsamc.ups-tlse.fr

Received: 18 May 2006
Accepted: 5 June 2006
Published online: 3 November 2006

Abstract

We discuss three finite fermion systems in comparison: nuclei, metal clusters, and droplets of liquid ³He. A principle sorting in “natural units” of energy and length scales is given. We address the theoretical description in terms of self-consistent mean-field theories and their effective energy-density functionals. We look at the interplay of the different time scales from the various constituents of either system. Finally, we discuss the prospects of more detailed experimental analyses for the case of metal clusters, in particular in the non-linear domain where truly dynamical behaviors are expected.