https://doi.org/10.1140/epja/i2007-10360-3
Regular Article - Nuclear Structure and Reactions
The symmetry energy in nuclei and in nuclear matter
1
Kernfysisch Versneller Instituut, NL-9474AA, Groningen, The Netherlands
2
Grand Accélérateur National d'Ions Lourds, B.P. 55027, F-14076, Caen Cedex 5, France
Received:
15
January
2007
Accepted:
3
April
2007
Published online:
27
April
2007
We discuss to what extent information on ground-state properties of finite nuclei (energies and radii) can be used to obtain constraints on the symmetry energy in nuclear matter and its dependence on the density. The starting point is a generalized Weizsäcker formula for ground-state energies. In particular, effects from the Wigner energy and shell structure on the symmetry energy are investigated. Strong correlations in the parameter space prevent a clear isolation of the surface contribution. Use of neutron skin information improves the situation. The result of the analysis appears consistent with a rather soft density dependence of the symmetry energy in nuclear matter.
PACS: 21.10.Dr Binding energies and masses – / 26.60.+c Nuclear matter aspects of neutron stars – / 21.10.Ft Charge distribution –
© Società Italiana di Fisica and Springer-Verlag, 2007
