Nonlinear Meson Theory for Heavy Nuclei

Abstract

A potential well somewhat between a three-dimensional isotropic oscillator and a square well is determined by using a nonlinear meson theory for heavy nuclei in their ground states. The introduction of a phenomenological spin-orbit coupling is shown to group the energy levels obtained according to the magic numbers. Finally, it is shown that the existence of nuclear shell structure seems to imply a modification in the concept of constant nuclear density for heavy nuclei.