Dynamical α-cluster model of $^{16}$O

Abstract

We calculate the low-lying spectrum of the $^{16}$O nucleus using an α-cluster model which includes the important tetrahedral and square configurations. Our approach is motivated by the dynamics of α-particle scattering in the Skyrme model. We are able to replicate the large energy splitting that is observed between states of identical spin but opposite parities. We also provide a novel interpretation of the first excited state of $^{16}$O and make predictions for the energies of 6$^{−}$ states that have yet to be observed experimentally.