Quantum Monte Carlo calculations of magnetic form factors in light nuclei

Abstract

We present Quantum Monte Carlo calculations of magnetic form factors in $A=6-10$ nuclei, based on Norfolk two- and three-nucleon interactions, and associated one- and two-body electromagnetic currents. Agreement with the available experimental data for ${}^6$Li, ${}^7$Li, ${}^9$Be and ${}^{10}$B up to values of momentum transfer $q\sim 3$ fm${}^{-1}$ is achieved when two-nucleon currents are accounted for. We present a set of predictions for the magnetic form factors of ${}^7$Be, ${}^8$Li, ${}^9$Li, and ${}^9$C. In these systems, two-body currents account for $\sim 40-60\%$ of the total magnetic strength. Measurements in any of these radioactive systems would provide valuable insights on the nuclear magnetic structure emerging from the underlying many-nucleon dynamics. A particularly interesting case is that of ${}^7$Be, as it would enable investigations of the magnetic structure of mirror nuclei.

5 pages, 3 figures, 1 table