Widths of $\bar{K}$-nuclear deeply bound states in a dynamical model

Abstract

The relativistic mean field (RMF) model is applied to a system of nucleons and a $\bar{K}$ meson, interacting via scalar and vector boson fields. The model incorporates the standard RMF phenomenology for bound nucleons and, for the $\bar{K}$ meson, it relates to low-energy $\bar{K}N$ and $K^{-}$ atom phenomenology. Deeply bound $\bar{K}$ nuclear states are generated dynamically across the periodic table and are exhibited for ${}^{12}$C and ${}^{16}$O over a wide range of binding energies. Substantial polarization of the core nucleus is found for these light nuclei. Absorption modes are also included dynamically, considering explicitly the reduced phase space for $\bar{K}$ absorption from deeply bound states. The behavior of the calculated width as function of the $\bar{K}$ binding energy is studied in order to explore limits on the possible existence of narrow $\bar{K}$ nuclear states.

12 pages, 1 table, 3 figures Minor changes, to appear in PLB