Showing 1–50 of 97 results for author: Engel, J

Symmetry restoration in the axially deformed proton-neutron quasiparticle random phase approximation for nuclear beta decay: The effect of angular-momentum projection

Authors: R. N. Chen, Y. N. Zhang, J. M. Yao, J. Engel

Abstract: We examine the effects of symmetry restoration on nuclear beta decay within the axially deformed proton-neutron quasiparticle random phase approximation (QRPA). We employ the proton-neutron finite-amplitude method (pnFAM) to compute transition amplitudes, and perform angular-momentum projection both after variation and after the QRPA to restore rotational symmetry. Exact projection reduces the cal… ▽ More We examine the effects of symmetry restoration on nuclear beta decay within the axially deformed proton-neutron quasiparticle random phase approximation (QRPA). We employ the proton-neutron finite-amplitude method (pnFAM) to compute transition amplitudes, and perform angular-momentum projection both after variation and after the QRPA to restore rotational symmetry. Exact projection reduces the calculated beta decay half-lives from those that use the needle approximation by up to 60%, and even more when taking the effects of projection on the ground-state energy into account. △ Less

Submitted 22 October, 2025; v1 submitted 17 October, 2025; originally announced October 2025.

Comments: 13 pages with 10 figures

Effects of beyond-mean-field correlations on nuclear Schiff moments

Authors: E. F. Zhou, J. M. Yao, J. Engel, J. Meng

Abstract: We compute the nuclear Schiff moments of the diamagnetic atoms $^{129}$Xe, $^{199}$Hg, and $^{225}$Ra in multireference covariant density functional theory. Beyond-mean-field correlations, arising from symmetry restoration and shape mixing, are incorporated via the generator coordinate method with projection onto states with well-defined parity, particle number, and angular momentum. Our results r… ▽ More We compute the nuclear Schiff moments of the diamagnetic atoms $^{129}$Xe, $^{199}$Hg, and $^{225}$Ra in multireference covariant density functional theory. Beyond-mean-field correlations, arising from symmetry restoration and shape mixing, are incorporated via the generator coordinate method with projection onto states with well-defined parity, particle number, and angular momentum. Our results reveal a correlation between the contributions of nuclear intermediate states to Schiff moments and the electric dipole transition strengths from these states to the ground state. The new beyond-mean-field effects can either enhance or suppress the Schiff moments. In $^{225}$Ra, they do the latter, reducing the enhancement from octupole deformation somewhat. △ Less

Submitted 2 July, 2025; originally announced July 2025.

Comments: 6 pages, 3 figures and 1 table

Nuclear Schiff Moments and CP Violation

Authors: Jonathan Engel

Abstract: This paper reviews the calculation of nuclear Schiff moments, which one must know in order to interpret experiments that search for time-reversal-violating electric dipole moments in certain atoms and molecules. After briefly reviewing the connection between dipole moments and CP violation in and beyond the Standard Model of particle physics, Schiff's theorem, which concerns the screening of nucle… ▽ More This paper reviews the calculation of nuclear Schiff moments, which one must know in order to interpret experiments that search for time-reversal-violating electric dipole moments in certain atoms and molecules. After briefly reviewing the connection between dipole moments and CP violation in and beyond the Standard Model of particle physics, Schiff's theorem, which concerns the screening of nuclear electric dipole moments by electrons, Schiff moments, and experiments to measure dipole moments in atoms and molecules, the paper examines attempts to compute Schiff moments in nuclei such as $^{199}$Hg and octupole-deformed isotopes such as $^{225}$Ra, which are particularly useful in experiments. It then turns to ab initio nuclear-structure theory, describing ways in which both the In-Medium Similarity Renormalization Group and coupled-cluster theory can be used to compute important Schiff moments more accurately than the less controlled methods that have been applied so far. △ Less

Submitted 5 January, 2025; originally announced January 2025.

Comments: 24 pages, 4 figures, submitted to the Annual Review of Nuclear and Particle Science

The Ferroaxionic Force

Authors: Asimina Arvanitaki, Jonathan Engel, Andrew A. Geraci, Amalia Madden, Alexander Hepburn, Ken Van Tilburg

Abstract: We show that piezoelectric materials can be used to source virtual QCD axions, generating a new axion-mediated force. Spontaneous parity violation within the piezoelectric crystal combined with time-reversal violation from aligned spins provide the necessary symmetry breaking to produce an effective in-medium scalar coupling of the axion to nucleons up to 7 orders of magnitude larger than that in… ▽ More We show that piezoelectric materials can be used to source virtual QCD axions, generating a new axion-mediated force. Spontaneous parity violation within the piezoelectric crystal combined with time-reversal violation from aligned spins provide the necessary symmetry breaking to produce an effective in-medium scalar coupling of the axion to nucleons up to 7 orders of magnitude larger than that in vacuum. We propose a detection scheme based on nuclear spin precession caused by the axion's pseudoscalar coupling to nuclear spins. This signal is resonantly enhanced when the distance between the source crystal and the spin sample is modulated at the spin precession frequency. Using this effect, future experimental setups can be sensitive to the QCD axion in the unexplored mass range from $10^{-5}\,\mathrm{eV}$ to $10^{-2}\,\mathrm{eV}$. △ Less

Submitted 15 November, 2024; originally announced November 2024.

Comments: 5+4 pages, 4+1 figures

Ab initio uncertainty quantification of neutrinoless double-beta decay in $^{76}$Ge

Authors: A. Belley, J. M. Yao, B. Bally, J. Pitcher, J. Engel, H. Hergert, J. D. Holt, T. Miyagi, T. R. Rodriguez, A. M. Romero, S. R. Stroberg, X. Zhang

Abstract: The observation of neutrinoless double-beta ($0νββ$) decay would offer proof of lepton number violation, demonstrating that neutrinos are Majorana particles, while also helping us understand why there is more matter than antimatter in the Universe. If the decay is driven by the exchange of the three known light neutrinos, a discovery would, in addition, link the observed decay rate to the neutrino… ▽ More The observation of neutrinoless double-beta ($0νββ$) decay would offer proof of lepton number violation, demonstrating that neutrinos are Majorana particles, while also helping us understand why there is more matter than antimatter in the Universe. If the decay is driven by the exchange of the three known light neutrinos, a discovery would, in addition, link the observed decay rate to the neutrino mass scale through a theoretical quantity known as the nuclear matrix element (NME). Accurate values of the NMEs for all nuclei considered for use in $0νββ$ experiments are therefore crucial for designing and interpreting those experiments. Here, we report the first comprehensive ab initio uncertainty quantification of the $0νββ$-decay NME, in the key nucleus $^{76}$Ge. Our method employs nuclear strong and weak interactions derived within chiral effective field theory and recently developed many-body emulators. Our result, with a conservative treatment of uncertainty, is an NME of $2.60^{+1.28}_{-1.36}$, which, together with the best-existing half-life sensitivity and phase-space factor, sets an upper limit for effective neutrino mass of $187^{+205}_{-62}$ meV. The result is important for designing next-generation germanium detectors aiming to cover the entire inverted hierarchy region of neutrino masses. △ Less

Submitted 19 January, 2024; v1 submitted 29 August, 2023; originally announced August 2023.

Comments: 7 pages, 1 table, and 2 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 132, 182502 (2024)

Effects of Quasiparticle-Vibration Coupling on Gamow-Teller Strength and $β$ Decay with the Skyrme Proton-Neutron Finite-Amplitude Method

Authors: Qunqun Liu, Jonathan Engel, Nobuo Hinohara, Markus Kortelainen

Abstract: We adapt the proton-neutron finite-amplitude method, which in its original form is an efficient implementation of the Skyrme quasiparticle random phase approximation, to include the coupling of quasiparticles to like-particle phonons. The approach allows us to add beyond-QRPA correlations to computations of Gamow-Teller strength and $β$-decay rates in deformed nuclei for the first time. We test th… ▽ More We adapt the proton-neutron finite-amplitude method, which in its original form is an efficient implementation of the Skyrme quasiparticle random phase approximation, to include the coupling of quasiparticles to like-particle phonons. The approach allows us to add beyond-QRPA correlations to computations of Gamow-Teller strength and $β$-decay rates in deformed nuclei for the first time. We test the approach in several deformed isotopes for which measured strength distributions are available. The additional correlations dramatically improve agreement with the data, and will lead to improved global $β$-decay rates. △ Less

Submitted 22 August, 2023; originally announced August 2023.

Comments: 7 pages, 6 figures

Fundamental Symmetries, Neutrons, and Neutrinos (FSNN): Whitepaper for the 2023 NSAC Long Range Plan

Authors: B. Acharya, C. Adams, A. A. Aleksandrova, K. Alfonso, P. An, S. Baeßler, A. B. Balantekin, P. S. Barbeau, F. Bellini, V. Bellini, R. S. Beminiwattha, J. C. Bernauer, T. Bhattacharya, M. Bishof, A. E. Bolotnikov, P. A. Breur, M. Brodeur, J. P. Brodsky, L. J. Broussard, T. Brunner, D. P. Burdette, J. Caylor, M. Chiu, V. Cirigliano, J. A. Clark , et al. (154 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: This whitepaper presents the research priorities decided on by attendees of the 2022 Town Meeting for Fundamental Symmetries, Neutrons and Neutrinos, which took place December 13-15, 2022 in Chapel Hill, NC, as part of the Nuclear Science Advisory Committee (NSAC) 2023 Long Range Planning process. A total of 275 scientists registered for the meeting. The whitepaper makes a number of explicit recom… ▽ More This whitepaper presents the research priorities decided on by attendees of the 2022 Town Meeting for Fundamental Symmetries, Neutrons and Neutrinos, which took place December 13-15, 2022 in Chapel Hill, NC, as part of the Nuclear Science Advisory Committee (NSAC) 2023 Long Range Planning process. A total of 275 scientists registered for the meeting. The whitepaper makes a number of explicit recommendations and justifies them in detail. △ Less

Submitted 6 April, 2023; originally announced April 2023.

Opportunities for Fundamental Physics Research with Radioactive Molecules

Authors: Gordon Arrowsmith-Kron, Michail Athanasakis-Kaklamanakis, Mia Au, Jochen Ballof, Robert Berger, Anastasia Borschevsky, Alexander A. Breier, Fritz Buchinger, Dmitry Budker, Luke Caldwell, Christopher Charles, Nike Dattani, Ruben P. de Groote, David DeMille, Timo Dickel, Jacek Dobaczewski, Christoph E. Düllmann, Ephraim Eliav, Jon Engel, Mingyu Fan, Victor Flambaum, Kieran T. Flanagan, Alyssa Gaiser, Ronald Garcia Ruiz, Konstantin Gaul , et al. (37 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Molecules containing short-lived, radioactive nuclei are uniquely positioned to enable a wide range of scientific discoveries in the areas of fundamental symmetries, astrophysics, nuclear structure, and chemistry. Recent advances in the ability to create, cool, and control complex molecules down to the quantum level, along with recent and upcoming advances in radioactive species production at seve… ▽ More Molecules containing short-lived, radioactive nuclei are uniquely positioned to enable a wide range of scientific discoveries in the areas of fundamental symmetries, astrophysics, nuclear structure, and chemistry. Recent advances in the ability to create, cool, and control complex molecules down to the quantum level, along with recent and upcoming advances in radioactive species production at several facilities around the world, create a compelling opportunity to coordinate and combine these efforts to bring precision measurement and control to molecules containing extreme nuclei. In this manuscript, we review the scientific case for studying radioactive molecules, discuss recent atomic, molecular, nuclear, astrophysical, and chemical advances which provide the foundation for their study, describe the facilities where these species are and will be produced, and provide an outlook for the future of this nascent field. △ Less

Submitted 4 February, 2023; originally announced February 2023.

Journal ref: Rep. Prog. Phys. 87 084301 (2024)

Neutrinoless Double Beta Decay

Authors: C. Adams, K. Alfonso, C. Andreoiu, E. Angelico, I. J. Arnquist, J. A. A. Asaadi, F. T. Avignone, S. N. Axani, A. S. Barabash, P. S. Barbeau, L. Baudis, F. Bellini, M. Beretta, T. Bhatta, V. Biancacci, M. Biassoni, E. Bossio, P. A. Breur, J. P. Brodsky, C. Brofferio, E. Brown, R. Brugnera, T. Brunner, N. Burlac, E. Caden , et al. (207 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: This White Paper, prepared for the Fundamental Symmetries, Neutrons, and Neutrinos Town Meeting related to the 2023 Nuclear Physics Long Range Plan, makes the case for double beta decay as a critical component of the future nuclear physics program. The major experimental collaborations and many theorists have endorsed this white paper. This White Paper, prepared for the Fundamental Symmetries, Neutrons, and Neutrinos Town Meeting related to the 2023 Nuclear Physics Long Range Plan, makes the case for double beta decay as a critical component of the future nuclear physics program. The major experimental collaborations and many theorists have endorsed this white paper. △ Less

Submitted 21 December, 2022; originally announced December 2022.

Comments: white paper submitted for the Fundamental Symmetries, Neutrons, and Neutrinos Town Meeting in support of the US Nuclear Physics Long Range Planning Process

Elucidating the finite temperature quasiparticle random phase approximation

Authors: E. M. Ney, A. Ravlić, J. Engel, N. Paar

Abstract: In numerous astrophysical scenarios, such as core-collapse supernovae and neutron star mergers, as in well as heavy-ion collision experiments, transitions between thermally populated nuclear excited states have been shown to play an important role. Due to its simplicity and excellent extrapolation ability, the finite-temperature quasiparticle random phase approximation (FT-QRPA) presents itself as… ▽ More In numerous astrophysical scenarios, such as core-collapse supernovae and neutron star mergers, as in well as heavy-ion collision experiments, transitions between thermally populated nuclear excited states have been shown to play an important role. Due to its simplicity and excellent extrapolation ability, the finite-temperature quasiparticle random phase approximation (FT-QRPA) presents itself as an efficient method to study the properties of hot nuclei. The statistical ensembles in the FT-QRPA make the theory much richer than its zero-temperature counterpart, but also obscure the meaning of various physical quantities. In this work, we clarify several aspects of the FT-QRPA, including notations seen in the literature, and demonstrate how to extract physical quantities from the theory. To exemplify the correct treatment of finite-temperature transitions, we place special emphasis on the charge-exchange transitions described within the proton-neutron FT-QRPA (FT-PNQRPA). With the FT-PNQRPA built on the nuclear energy-density functional theory, we obtain solutions using a relativistic matrix approach and also the non-relativistic finite amplitude method. We show that the Ikeda sum rule is fulfilled with the proper treatment of de-excitations from thermally populated excited states. Additionally, we demonstrate the impact of these transitions on stellar electron capture (EC) rates in ${}^{58,78}$Ni. While their inclusion does not influence the EC rates in ${}^{58}$Ni, the rates in ${}^{78}$Ni are dominated by de-excitations for temperatures $T > 0.5$ MeV. In systems with a large negative $Q$-value, the inclusion of de-excitations within the FT-QRPA is necessary for a complete description of reaction rates at finite temperature. △ Less

Submitted 20 September, 2022; originally announced September 2022.

Comments: 19 pages, 4 figures, submitted for publication

The Influence of Beta Decay Rates on r-Process Observables

Authors: Kelsey A. Lund, J. Engel, G. C. McLaughlin, M. R. Mumpower, E. M. Ney, R. Surman

Abstract: The rapid neutron capture process (r-process) is one of the main mechanisms whereby elements heavier than iron are synthesized, and is entirely responsible for the natural production of the actinides. Kilonova emissions are modeled as being largely powered by the radioactive decay of species synthesized via the r -process. Given that the r -process occurs far from nuclear stability, unmeasured bet… ▽ More The rapid neutron capture process (r-process) is one of the main mechanisms whereby elements heavier than iron are synthesized, and is entirely responsible for the natural production of the actinides. Kilonova emissions are modeled as being largely powered by the radioactive decay of species synthesized via the r -process. Given that the r -process occurs far from nuclear stability, unmeasured beta decay rates play an essential role in setting the time scale for the r -process. In an effort to better understand the sensitivity of kilonova modeling to different theoretical global beta-decay descriptions, we incorporate these into nucleosynthesis calculations. We compare the results of these calculations and highlight differences in kilonova nuclear energy generation and light curve predictions, as well as final abundances and their implications for nuclear cosmochronometry. We investigate scenarios where differences in beta decay rates are responsible for increased nuclear heating on time scales of days that propagates into a significantly increased average bolometric luminosity between 1-10 days post-merger. We identify key nuclei, both measured and unmeasured, whose decay rates are directly impact nuclear heating generation on timescales responsible for light curve evolution. We also find that uncertainties in beta decay rates significantly impact ages estimates from cosmochronometry. △ Less

Submitted 12 August, 2022; originally announced August 2022.

Report number: LA-UR 22-28160

Towards Precise and Accurate Calculations of Neutrinoless Double-Beta Decay: Project Scoping Workshop Report

Authors: V. Cirigliano, Z. Davoudi, J. Engel, R. J. Furnstahl, G. Hagen, U. Heinz, H. Hergert, M. Horoi, C. W. Johnson, A. Lovato, E. Mereghetti, W. Nazarewicz, A. Nicholson, T. Papenbrock, S. Pastore, M. Plumlee, D. R. Phillips, P. E. Shanahan, S. R. Stroberg, F. Viens, A. Walker-Loud, K. A. Wendt, S. M. Wild

Abstract: We present the results of a National Science Foundation (NSF) Project Scoping Workshop, the purpose of which was to assess the current status of calculations for the nuclear matrix elements governing neutrinoless double-beta decay and determine if more work on them is required. After reviewing important recent progress in the application of effective field theory, lattice quantum chromodynamics, a… ▽ More We present the results of a National Science Foundation (NSF) Project Scoping Workshop, the purpose of which was to assess the current status of calculations for the nuclear matrix elements governing neutrinoless double-beta decay and determine if more work on them is required. After reviewing important recent progress in the application of effective field theory, lattice quantum chromodynamics, and ab initio nuclear-structure theory to double-beta decay, we discuss the state of the art in nuclear-physics uncertainty quantification and then construct a road map for work in all these areas to fully complement the increasingly sensitive experiments in operation and under development. The road map contains specific projects in theoretical and computational physics as well as an uncertainty-quantification plan that employs Bayesian Model Mixing and an analysis of correlations between double-beta-decay rates and other observables. The goal of this program is a set of accurate and precise matrix elements, in all nuclei of interest to experimentalists, delivered together with carefully assessed uncertainties. Such calculations will allow crisp conclusions from the observation or non-observation of neutrinoless double-beta decay, no matter what new physics is at play. △ Less

Submitted 3 July, 2022; originally announced July 2022.

Comments: This Project Scoping Workshop report is focused on the US context for the theory of neutrinloess double beta decay. Its authors plan to produce a journal article that addresses similar issues, but is more inclusive as regards non-US efforts on this problem. We would be happy to receive further input that will help us refine our text before it is submitted to the journal

Report number: INT-PUB-22-018

Journal ref: J. Phys. G: Nucl. Part. Phys. 49, 120502 (2022)

Ab initio studies of double Gamow-Teller transition and its correlation with neutrinoless double beta decay

Authors: J. M. Yao, I. Ginnett, A. Belley, T. Miyagi, R. Wirth, S. Bogner, J. Engel, H. Hergert, J. D. Holt, S. R. Stroberg

Abstract: We use chiral interactions and several {\em ab initio} methods to compute the nuclear matrix elements (NMEs) for ground-state to ground-state double Gamow-Teller transitions in a range of isotopes, and explore the correlation of these NMEs with those for neutrinoless double beta decay produced by the exchange of a light Majorana neutrino. When all the NMEs of both isospin-conserving and isospin-ch… ▽ More We use chiral interactions and several {\em ab initio} methods to compute the nuclear matrix elements (NMEs) for ground-state to ground-state double Gamow-Teller transitions in a range of isotopes, and explore the correlation of these NMEs with those for neutrinoless double beta decay produced by the exchange of a light Majorana neutrino. When all the NMEs of both isospin-conserving and isospin-changing transitions from the {\em ab initio} calculations are considered, the correlation is strong. For the experimentally relevant isospin-changing transitions by themselves, however, the correlation is weaker and may not be helpful for reducing the uncertainty in the NMEs for neutrinoless double-beta decay. △ Less

Submitted 7 July, 2022; v1 submitted 27 April, 2022; originally announced April 2022.

Comments: 16 pages with 19 figures, Phys. Rev. C (in press)

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. C106, 014315 (2022)

Neutrinoless Double-Beta Decay: A Roadmap for Matching Theory to Experiment

Authors: Vincenzo Cirigliano, Zohreh Davoudi, Wouter Dekens, Jordy de Vries, Jonathan Engel, Xu Feng, Julia Gehrlein, Michael L. Graesser, Lukáš Gráf, Heiko Hergert, Luchang Jin, Emanuele Mereghetti, Amy Nicholson, Saori Pastore, Michael J. Ramsey-Musolf, Richard Ruiz, Martin Spinrath, Ubirajara van Kolck, André Walker-Loud

Abstract: The observation of neutrino oscillations and hence non-zero neutrino masses provided a milestone in the search for physics beyond the Standard Model. But even though we now know that neutrinos are massive, the nature of neutrino masses, i.e., whether they are Dirac or Majorana, remains an open question. A smoking-gun signature of Majorana neutrinos is the observation of neutrinoless double-beta de… ▽ More The observation of neutrino oscillations and hence non-zero neutrino masses provided a milestone in the search for physics beyond the Standard Model. But even though we now know that neutrinos are massive, the nature of neutrino masses, i.e., whether they are Dirac or Majorana, remains an open question. A smoking-gun signature of Majorana neutrinos is the observation of neutrinoless double-beta decay, a process that violates the lepton-number conservation of the Standard Model. This white paper focuses on the theoretical aspects of the neutrinoless double-beta decay program and lays out a roadmap for future developments. The roadmap is a multi-scale path starting from high-energy models of neutrinoless double-beta decay all the way to the low-energy nuclear many-body problem that needs to be solved to supplement measurements of the decay rate. The path goes through a systematic effective-field-theory description of the underlying processes at various scales and needs to be supplemented by lattice quantum chromodynamics input. The white paper also discusses the interplay between neutrinoless double-beta decay, experiments at the Large Hadron Collider and results from astrophysics and cosmology in probing simplified models of lepton-number violation at the TeV scale, and the generation of the matter-antimatter asymmetry via leptogenesis. This white paper is prepared for the topical groups TF11 (Theory of Neutrino Physics), TF05 (Lattice Gauge Theory), RF04 (Baryon and Lepton Number Violating Processes), NF03 (Beyond the Standard Model) and NF05 (Neutrino Properties) within the Theory Frontier, Rare Processes and Precision Frontier, and Neutrino Physics Frontier of the U.S. Community Study on the Future of Particle Physics (Snowmass 2021). △ Less

Submitted 22 March, 2022; originally announced March 2022.

Comments: Contribution to Snowmass 2021

Report number: LA-UR-22-22587

Electric dipole moments and the search for new physics

Authors: Ricardo Alarcon, Jim Alexander, Vassilis Anastassopoulos, Takatoshi Aoki, Rick Baartman, Stefan Baeßler, Larry Bartoszek, Douglas H. Beck, Franco Bedeschi, Robert Berger, Martin Berz, Hendrick L. Bethlem, Tanmoy Bhattacharya, Michael Blaskiewicz, Thomas Blum, Themis Bowcock, Anastasia Borschevsky, Kevin Brown, Dmitry Budker, Sergey Burdin, Brendan C. Casey, Gianluigi Casse, Giovanni Cantatore, Lan Cheng, Timothy Chupp , et al. (118 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Static electric dipole moments of nondegenerate systems probe mass scales for physics beyond the Standard Model well beyond those reached directly at high energy colliders. Discrimination between different physics models, however, requires complementary searches in atomic-molecular-and-optical, nuclear and particle physics. In this report, we discuss the current status and prospects in the near fu… ▽ More Static electric dipole moments of nondegenerate systems probe mass scales for physics beyond the Standard Model well beyond those reached directly at high energy colliders. Discrimination between different physics models, however, requires complementary searches in atomic-molecular-and-optical, nuclear and particle physics. In this report, we discuss the current status and prospects in the near future for a compelling suite of such experiments, along with developments needed in the encompassing theoretical framework. △ Less

Submitted 4 April, 2022; v1 submitted 15 March, 2022; originally announced March 2022.

Comments: Contribution to Snowmass 2021; updated with community edits and endorsements

Solving Nuclear Structure Problems with the Adaptive Variational Quantum Algorithm

Authors: A. M. Romero, J. Engel, Ho Lun Tang, Sophia E. Economou

Abstract: We use the Lipkin-Meshkov-Glick (LMG) model and the valence-space nuclear shell model to examine the likely performance of variational quantum eigensolvers in nuclear-structure theory. The LMG model exhibits both a phase transition and spontaneous symmetry breaking at the mean-field level in one of the phases, features that characterize collective dynamics in medium-mass and heavy nuclei. We show… ▽ More We use the Lipkin-Meshkov-Glick (LMG) model and the valence-space nuclear shell model to examine the likely performance of variational quantum eigensolvers in nuclear-structure theory. The LMG model exhibits both a phase transition and spontaneous symmetry breaking at the mean-field level in one of the phases, features that characterize collective dynamics in medium-mass and heavy nuclei. We show that with appropriate modifications, the ADAPT-VQE algorithm, a particularly flexible and accurate variational approach, is not troubled by these complications. We treat up to 12 particles and show that the number of quantum operations needed to approach the ground-state energy scales linearly with the number of qubits. We find similar scaling when the algorithm is applied to the nuclear shell model with realistic interactions in the $sd$ and $pf$ shells. Although most of these simulations contain no noise, we use a noise model from real IBM hardware to show that for the LMG model with four particles, weak noise has no effect on the efficiency of the algorithm. △ Less

Submitted 28 June, 2022; v1 submitted 3 March, 2022; originally announced March 2022.

Comments: 10 pages, 7 figures. Identical in content to published version. Now incudes analysis of noise

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. C 105, 064317 (2022)

Global calculation of two-neutrino double-$β$ decay within the finite amplitude method in nuclear density functional theory

Authors: Nobuo Hinohara, Jonathan Engel

Abstract: Two-neutrino double-beta ($2νββ$) decay has been used to constrain the neutron-proton part of effective interactions, which in turn is used to compute the nuclear matrix elements for neutrinoless double-beta decay, the observation of which would have important consequences for fundamental physics. We carefully examine $2νββ$ matrix elements within the proton-neutron quasiparticle random-phase appr… ▽ More Two-neutrino double-beta ($2νββ$) decay has been used to constrain the neutron-proton part of effective interactions, which in turn is used to compute the nuclear matrix elements for neutrinoless double-beta decay, the observation of which would have important consequences for fundamental physics. We carefully examine $2νββ$ matrix elements within the proton-neutron quasiparticle random-phase approximation with nuclear energy density functionals. We work with functionals that are fit globally to single-beta-decay half-lives and charge-exchange giant-resonance energies, but not to $2νββ$ half-lives themselves, to evaluate the $2νββ$ nuclear matrix elements for all important nuclei, including those whose half-lives have not yet been measured. Such a comprehensive evaluation in large model spaces without configuration truncation requires an efficient computational scheme; we employ a double contour integration within the finite amplitude method. The results generally reproduce the nuclear matrix element extracted from half-lives well, without the use of any of those half-lives in the fitting procedure. We present predictions of the matrix elements in a total of 27 nuclei with half-lives that are still unmeasured. △ Less

Submitted 19 April, 2022; v1 submitted 30 January, 2022; originally announced January 2022.

Comments: 16 pages, 5 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. C 105, 044314 (2022)

Two-body weak currents in heavy nuclei

Authors: E. M. Ney, J. Engel, N. Schunck

Abstract: In light and medium-mass nuclei, two-body weak currents from chiral effective field theory account for a significant portion of the phenomenological quenching of Gamow-Teller transition matrix elements. Here we examine the systematic effects of two-body axial currents on Gamow-Teller strength and $β$-decay rates in heavy nuclei within energy-density functional theory. Using a Skyrme functional and… ▽ More In light and medium-mass nuclei, two-body weak currents from chiral effective field theory account for a significant portion of the phenomenological quenching of Gamow-Teller transition matrix elements. Here we examine the systematic effects of two-body axial currents on Gamow-Teller strength and $β$-decay rates in heavy nuclei within energy-density functional theory. Using a Skyrme functional and the charge-changing finite amplitude method, we add the contributions of two-body currents to the usual one-body linear response in the Gamow-Teller channel, both exactly and though a density-matrix expansion. The two-body currents, as expected, usually quench both summed Gamow-Teller strength and decay rates, but by an amount that decreases as the neutron excess grows. In addition, they can enhance individual low-lying transitions, leading to decay rates that are quite different from those that an energy-independent quenching would produce, particularly in neutron-rich nuclei. We show that both these unexpected effects are related to changes in the total nucleon density as the number of neutrons increases. △ Less

Submitted 29 December, 2021; originally announced December 2021.

Comments: 13 pages, 8 figures

Finite-temperature electron-capture rates for neutron-rich nuclei around N=50 and effects on core-collapse supernovae simulations

Authors: S. Giraud, E. M. Ney, A. Ravlić, R. G. T. Zegers, J. Engel, N. Paar, B. A. Brown, J. -M. Gabler, J. Lesniak, J. Rebenstock

Abstract: The temperature dependence of stellar electron-capture (EC) rates is investigated, with a focus on nuclei around $N=50$, just above $Z=28$, which play an important role during the collapse phase of core-collapse supernovae (CCSN). Two new microscopic calculations of stellar EC rates are obtained from a relativistic and a non-relativistic finite-temperature quasiparticle random-phase approximation… ▽ More The temperature dependence of stellar electron-capture (EC) rates is investigated, with a focus on nuclei around $N=50$, just above $Z=28$, which play an important role during the collapse phase of core-collapse supernovae (CCSN). Two new microscopic calculations of stellar EC rates are obtained from a relativistic and a non-relativistic finite-temperature quasiparticle random-phase approximation approaches, for a conventional grid of temperatures and densities. In both approaches, EC rates due to Gamow-Teller transitions are included. In the relativistic calculation contributions from first-forbidden transitions are also included, and add strongly to the EC rates. The new EC rates are compared with large-scale shell model calculations for the specific case of $^{86}$Kr, providing insight into the finite-temperature effects on the EC rates. At relevant thermodynamic conditions for core-collapse, the discrepancies between the different calculations of this work are within about one order of magnitude. Numerical simulations of CCSN are performed with the spherically-symmetric GR1D simulation code to quantify the impact of such differences on the dynamics of the collapse. These simulations also include EC rates based on two parametrized approximations. A comparison of the neutrino luminosities and enclosed mass at core bounce shows that differences between simulations with different sets of EC rates are relatively small ($\approx 5\%$), suggesting that the EC rates used as inputs for these simulations have become well constrained. △ Less

Submitted 2 December, 2021; originally announced December 2021.

Application of efficient generator-coordinate subspace-selection algorithm to neutrinoless double-$β$ decay

Authors: A. M Romero, J. M. Yao, B. Bally, T. R. Rodríguez, J. Engel

Abstract: The generator coordinate method begins with the variational construction of a set of non-orthogonal mean-field states that span a subspace of the full many-body Hilbert space. These states are then often projected onto states with good quantum numbers to restore symmetries, leading to a set with members that can be similar to one another, and it is sometimes possible to reduce this set without gre… ▽ More The generator coordinate method begins with the variational construction of a set of non-orthogonal mean-field states that span a subspace of the full many-body Hilbert space. These states are then often projected onto states with good quantum numbers to restore symmetries, leading to a set with members that can be similar to one another, and it is sometimes possible to reduce this set without greatly affecting results. Here we propose a greedy algorithm that we call the energy-transition-orthogonality procedure (ENTROP) to select subsets of important states. As applied here, the approach selects on the basis of diagonal energy, orthogonality, and contribution to the matrix element that governs neutrinoless double-$β$ decay. We present both shell-model and preliminary ab initio calculations of this matrix element for the decay of $^{76}$Ge, with quadrupole deformation parameters and the isoscalar pairing strength as generator coordinates. ENTROP converges quickly, reducing significantly the number of basis states needed for an accurate calculation. △ Less

Submitted 20 June, 2021; v1 submitted 7 May, 2021; originally announced May 2021.

Comments: 7 pages, 9 figures, authors added, some details clarified

Coupled-cluster calculations of neutrinoless double-beta decay in $^{48}$Ca

Authors: S. J. Novario, P. Gysbers, J. Engel, G. Hagen, G. R. Jansen, T. D. Morris, P. Navrátil, T. Papenbrock, S. Quaglioni

Abstract: We use coupled-cluster theory and nuclear interactions from chiral effective field theory to compute the nuclear matrix element for the neutrinoless double-beta decay of $^{48}$Ca. Benchmarks with the no-core shell model in several light nuclei inform us about the accuracy of our approach. For $^{48}$Ca we find a relatively small matrix element. We also compute the nuclear matrix element for the t… ▽ More We use coupled-cluster theory and nuclear interactions from chiral effective field theory to compute the nuclear matrix element for the neutrinoless double-beta decay of $^{48}$Ca. Benchmarks with the no-core shell model in several light nuclei inform us about the accuracy of our approach. For $^{48}$Ca we find a relatively small matrix element. We also compute the nuclear matrix element for the two-neutrino double-beta decay of $^{48}$Ca with a quenching factor deduced from two-body currents in recent ab-initio calculation of the Ikeda sum-rule in $^{48}$Ca [Gysbers et al., Nature Physics 15, 428-431 (2019)]. △ Less

Submitted 12 May, 2021; v1 submitted 21 August, 2020; originally announced August 2020.

Comments: 14 pages, 13 figures; Version accepted for publication, Supplemental material also updated

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 126, 182502 (2021)

Gamow-Teller strength in $^{48}$Ca and $^{78}$Ni with the charge-exchange subtracted second random-phase approximation

Authors: D. Gambacurta, M. Grasso, J. Engel

Abstract: We develop a fully self-consistent subtracted second random-phase approximation for charge-exchange processes with Skyrme energy-density functionals. As a first application, we study Gamow-Teller excitations in the doubly-magic nucleus $^{48}$Ca, the lightest double-$β$ emitter that could be used in an experiment, and in $^{78}$Ni, the single-beta-decay rate of which is known. The amount of Gamow-… ▽ More We develop a fully self-consistent subtracted second random-phase approximation for charge-exchange processes with Skyrme energy-density functionals. As a first application, we study Gamow-Teller excitations in the doubly-magic nucleus $^{48}$Ca, the lightest double-$β$ emitter that could be used in an experiment, and in $^{78}$Ni, the single-beta-decay rate of which is known. The amount of Gamow-Teller strength below 20 or 30 MeV is considerably smaller than in other energy-density-functional calculations and agrees better with experiment in $^{48}$Ca, as does the beta-decay rate in $^{78}$Ni. These important results, obtained without \textit{ad hoc} quenching factors, are due to the presence of two-particle -- two-hole configurations. Their density progressively increases with excitation energy, leading to a long high-energy tail in the spectrum, a fact that may have implications for the computation of nuclear matrix elements for neutrinoless double-$β$ decay in the same framework. △ Less

Submitted 29 September, 2020; v1 submitted 9 July, 2020; originally announced July 2020.

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 125, 212501 (2020)

Global Description of Beta Decay with the Axially-Deformed Skyrme Finite Amplitude Method: Extension to Odd-Mass and Odd-Odd Nuclei

Authors: E. M. Ney, J. Engel, N. Schunck

Abstract: We use the finite amplitude method (FAM), an efficient implementation of the quasiparticle random phase approximation, to compute beta-decay rates with Skyrme energy-density functionals for 3983 nuclei, essentially all the medium-mass and heavy isotopes on the neutron rich side of stability. We employ an extension of the FAM that treats odd-mass and odd-odd nuclear ground states in the equal filli… ▽ More We use the finite amplitude method (FAM), an efficient implementation of the quasiparticle random phase approximation, to compute beta-decay rates with Skyrme energy-density functionals for 3983 nuclei, essentially all the medium-mass and heavy isotopes on the neutron rich side of stability. We employ an extension of the FAM that treats odd-mass and odd-odd nuclear ground states in the equal filling approximation. Our rates are in reasonable agreement both with experimental data where available and with rates from other global calculations. △ Less

Submitted 28 May, 2020; v1 submitted 26 May, 2020; originally announced May 2020.

Comments: 11 pages, 7 figures, supplemental material. Submitted to Phys. Rev. C

Benchmark neutrinoless double-beta decay matrix elements in a light nucleus

Authors: R. A. M. Basili, J. M. Yao, J. Engel, H. Hergert, M. Lockner, P. Maris, J. P. Vary

Abstract: We compute nuclear matrix elements of neutrinoless double-beta decay mediated by light Majorana-neutrino exchange in the A = 6 system. The goal is to benchmark two many-body approaches, the No-Core Shell Model and the Multi-Reference In-Medium Similarity Renormalization Group. We use the SRG-evolved chiral N3LO-EM500 potential for the nuclear interaction, and make the approximation that isospin is… ▽ More We compute nuclear matrix elements of neutrinoless double-beta decay mediated by light Majorana-neutrino exchange in the A = 6 system. The goal is to benchmark two many-body approaches, the No-Core Shell Model and the Multi-Reference In-Medium Similarity Renormalization Group. We use the SRG-evolved chiral N3LO-EM500 potential for the nuclear interaction, and make the approximation that isospin is conserved. We compare the results of the two approaches as a function of the cutoff on the many-body basis space. Although differences are seen in the predicted nuclear radii, the ground-state energies and neutrinoless double-beta decay matrix elements produced by the two approaches show significant agreement. We discuss the implications for calculations in heavier nuclei. △ Less

Submitted 7 May, 2020; v1 submitted 13 September, 2019; originally announced September 2019.

Comments: 12 pages, 3 figures, 2 tables

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. C 102, 014302 (2020)

Ab Initio Treatment of Collective Correlations and the Neutrinoless Double Beta Decay of $^{48}$Ca

Authors: J. M. Yao, B. Bally, J. Engel, R. Wirth, T. R. Rodríguez, H. Hergert

Abstract: Working with Hamiltonians from chiral effective field theory, we develop a novel framework for describing arbitrary deformed medium-mass nuclei by combining the in-medium similarity renormalization group with the generator coordinate method. The approach leverages the ability of the first method to capture dynamic correlations and the second to include collective correlations without violating sym… ▽ More Working with Hamiltonians from chiral effective field theory, we develop a novel framework for describing arbitrary deformed medium-mass nuclei by combining the in-medium similarity renormalization group with the generator coordinate method. The approach leverages the ability of the first method to capture dynamic correlations and the second to include collective correlations without violating symmetries. We use our scheme to compute the matrix element that governs the neutrinoless double beta decay of $^{48}$Ca to $^{48}$Ti, and find it to have the value $0.61$, near or below the predictions of most phenomenological methods. The result opens the door to ab initio calculations of the matrix elements for the decay of heavier nuclei such as $^{76}$Ge, $^{130}$Te, and $^{136}$Xe. △ Less

Submitted 27 May, 2020; v1 submitted 15 August, 2019; originally announced August 2019.

Comments: 6 pages, 4 figures and 1 table. supplementary material included. version to be published

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 124, 232501 (2020)

Constraints for stellar electron-capture rates on $^{86}$Kr via the $^{86}$Kr($t$,$^{3}$He$+γ$)$^{86}$Br reaction and the implications for core-collapse supernovae

Authors: R. Titus, E. M. Ney, R. G. T. Zegers, D. Bazin, J. Belarge, P. C. Bender, B. A. Brown, C. M. Campbell, B. Elman, J. Engel, A. Gade, B. Gao, E. Kwan, S. Lipschutz, B. Longfellow, E. Lunderberg, T. Mijatovic, S. Noji, J. Pereira, J. Schmitt, C. Sullivan, D. Weisshaar, J. C. Zamora

Abstract: In the late stages of stellar core-collapse, prior to core bounce, electron captures on medium-heavy nuclei drive deleptonization and simulations require the use of accurate reaction rates. Nuclei with neutron number near $N=50$, just above atomic number $Z=28$, play an important role, but rates used in astrophysical simulations rely primarily on a relatively simple single-state approximation. In… ▽ More In the late stages of stellar core-collapse, prior to core bounce, electron captures on medium-heavy nuclei drive deleptonization and simulations require the use of accurate reaction rates. Nuclei with neutron number near $N=50$, just above atomic number $Z=28$, play an important role, but rates used in astrophysical simulations rely primarily on a relatively simple single-state approximation. In order to improve the accuracy of astrophysical simulations, experimental data are needed to test the electron-capture rates and to guide the development of better theoretical models. This work presents the results of the $^{86}$Kr($t$,$^{3}$He+$γ$) experiment at the NSCL, from which an upper limit for the Gamow-Teller strength up to an excitation energy in $^{86}$Br of 5 MeV is extracted. The derived upper limit for the electron-capture rate on $^{86}$Kr indicates that the rate estimated through the single-state approximation is too high and that rates based on Gamow-Teller strengths estimated in shell-model and QRPA calculations are more accurate. The QRPA calculations tested in this manner were used for estimating the electron capture rates for 78 isotopes near $N=50$ and above $Z=28$. The impact of using these new electron-capture rates in simulations of supernovae instead of the rates based on the single-state approximation is investigated, indicating a significant reduction in the deleptonization that affects multi-messenger signals, such as the emission of neutrinos and gravitational waves. △ Less

Submitted 11 August, 2019; originally announced August 2019.

Comments: 15 pages, 10 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. C 100, 045805 (2019)

FRIB and the GW170817 Kilonova

Authors: A. Aprahamian, R. Surman, A. Frebel, G. C. McLaughlin, A. Arcones, A. B. Balantekin, J. Barnes, Timothy C. Beers, Erika M. Holmbeck, Jinmi Yoon, Maxime Brodeur, T. M. Sprouse, Nicole Vassh, Jolie A. Cizewski, Jason A. Clark, Benoit Cote, Sean M. Couch, M. Eichler, Jonathan Engel, Rana Ezzeddine, George M. Fuller, Samuel A. Giuliani, Robert Grzywacz, Sophia Han, C. J. Horowitz , et al. (23 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: In July 2018 an FRIB Theory Alliance program was held on the implications of GW170817 and its associated kilonova for r-process nucleosynthesis. Topics of discussion included the astrophysical and nuclear physics uncertainties in the interpretation of the GW170817 kilonova, what we can learn about the astrophysical site or sites of the r process from this event, and the advances in nuclear experim… ▽ More In July 2018 an FRIB Theory Alliance program was held on the implications of GW170817 and its associated kilonova for r-process nucleosynthesis. Topics of discussion included the astrophysical and nuclear physics uncertainties in the interpretation of the GW170817 kilonova, what we can learn about the astrophysical site or sites of the r process from this event, and the advances in nuclear experiment and theory most crucial to pursue in light of the new data. Here we compile a selection of scientific contributions to the workshop, broadly representative of progress in r-process studies since the GW170817 event. △ Less

Submitted 3 September, 2018; originally announced September 2018.

Comments: Proceedings for the FRIB Theory Alliance workshop "FRIB and the GW170817 kilonova", held 16-27 July 2018 at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI USA; 44 pages, 14 figures

Report number: LA-UR-18-28022

Generator-coordinate reference states for spectra and $0νββ$ decay in the in-medium similarity renormalization group

Authors: J. M. Yao, J. Engel, L. J. Wang, C. F. Jiao, H. Hergert

Abstract: We use a reference state based on symmetry-restored states from deformed mean-field or generator-coordinate-method (GCM) calculations in conjunction with the in-medium similarity-renormalization group (IMSRG) to compute spectra and matrix elements for neutrinoless double-beta ($0νββ$) decay. Because the decay involves ground states from two nuclei, we use evolved operators from the IMSRG in one nu… ▽ More We use a reference state based on symmetry-restored states from deformed mean-field or generator-coordinate-method (GCM) calculations in conjunction with the in-medium similarity-renormalization group (IMSRG) to compute spectra and matrix elements for neutrinoless double-beta ($0νββ$) decay. Because the decay involves ground states from two nuclei, we use evolved operators from the IMSRG in one nucleus in a subsequent GCM calculation in the other. We benchmark the resulting IMSRG+GCM method against complete shell-model diagonalization for both the energies of low-lying states in $^{48}$Ca and $^{48}$Ti and the $0νββ$ matrix element for the decay of $^{48}$Ca, all in a single valence shell. Our approach produces better spectra than either the IMSRG with a spherical-mean-field reference or GCM calculations with unevolved operators. For the $0νββ$ matrix element the improvement is slight, but we expect more significant effects in full ab-initio calculations. △ Less

Submitted 4 November, 2018; v1 submitted 29 July, 2018; originally announced July 2018.

Comments: 12 pages, 5 figures, 1 tables

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. C 98, 054311 (2018)

Correlating Schiff moments in the light actinides with octupole moments

Authors: Jacek Dobaczewski, Jonathan Engel, Markus Kortelainen, Pierre Becker

Abstract: We show that the measured intrinsic octupole moments of $^{220}$Rn, $^{224}$Ra, and $^{226}$Ra constrain the intrinsic Schiff moments of $^{225}$Ra$^{221}$Rn, $^{223}$Rn, $^{223}$Fr, $^{225}$Ra, and $^{229}$Pa. The result is a dramatically reduced uncertainty in intrinsic Schiff moments. Direct measurements of octupole moments in odd nuclei will reduce the uncertainty even more. The only significa… ▽ More We show that the measured intrinsic octupole moments of $^{220}$Rn, $^{224}$Ra, and $^{226}$Ra constrain the intrinsic Schiff moments of $^{225}$Ra$^{221}$Rn, $^{223}$Rn, $^{223}$Fr, $^{225}$Ra, and $^{229}$Pa. The result is a dramatically reduced uncertainty in intrinsic Schiff moments. Direct measurements of octupole moments in odd nuclei will reduce the uncertainty even more. The only significant source of nuclear-physics error in the laboratory Schiff moments will then be the intrinsic matrix elements of the time-reversal non-invariant interaction produced by CP-violating fundamental physics. Those matrix elements are also correlated with octupole moments, but with a larger systematic uncertainty. △ Less

Submitted 25 July, 2018; originally announced July 2018.

Comments: 5 pages, 3 figures, supplementary material

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 121, 232501 (2018)

Quenching of nuclear matrix elements for $0νββ$ decay by chiral two-body currents

Authors: Long-Jun Wang, Jonathan Engel, Jiang Ming Yao

Abstract: We examine the leading effects of two-body weak currents from chiral effective field theory on the matrix elements governing neutrinoless double-beta decay. In the closure approximation these effects are generated by the product of a one-body current with a two-body current, yielding both two- and three-body operators. When the three-body operators are considered without approximation, they quench… ▽ More We examine the leading effects of two-body weak currents from chiral effective field theory on the matrix elements governing neutrinoless double-beta decay. In the closure approximation these effects are generated by the product of a one-body current with a two-body current, yielding both two- and three-body operators. When the three-body operators are considered without approximation, they quench matrix elements by about 10%, less than suggested by prior work, which neglected portions of the operators. The two-body operators, when treated in the standard way, can produce much larger quenching. In a consistent effective field theory, however, these large effects become divergent and must be renormalized by a contact operator, the coefficient of which we cannot determine at present. △ Less

Submitted 25 May, 2018; originally announced May 2018.

Comments: 6 pages, 5 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. C 98, 031301 (2018)

Nuclear Structure from the In-Medium Similarity Renormalization Group

Authors: Heiko Hergert, Jiangming Yao, Titus D. Morris, Nathan M. Parzuchowski, Scott K. Bogner, Jonathan Engel

Abstract: Efforts to describe nuclear structure and dynamics from first principles have advanced significantly in recent years. Exact methods for light nuclei are now able to include continuum degrees of freedom and treat structure and reactions on the same footing, and multiple approximate, computationally efficient many-body methods have been developed that can be routinely applied for medium-mass nuclei.… ▽ More Efforts to describe nuclear structure and dynamics from first principles have advanced significantly in recent years. Exact methods for light nuclei are now able to include continuum degrees of freedom and treat structure and reactions on the same footing, and multiple approximate, computationally efficient many-body methods have been developed that can be routinely applied for medium-mass nuclei. This has made it possible to confront modern nuclear interactions from Chiral Effective Field Theory, that are rooted in Quantum Chromodynamics with a wealth of experimental data. Here, we discuss one of these efficient new many-body methods, the In-Medium Similarity Renormalization Group (IMSRG), and its applications in modern nuclear structure theory. The IMSRG evolves the nuclear many-body Hamiltonian in second-quantized form through continuous unitary transformations that can be implemented with polynomial computational effort. Through suitably chosen generators, we drive the matrix representation of the Hamiltonian in configuration space to specific shapes, e.g., to implement a decoupling of low- and high-energy scales, or to extract energy eigenvalues for a given nucleus. We present selected results from Multireference IMSRG (MR-IMSRG) calculations of open-shell nuclei, as well as proof-of-principle applications for intrinsically deformed medium-mass nuclei. We discuss the successes and prospects of merging the (MR-)IMSRG with many-body methods ranging from Configuration Interaction to the Density Matrix Renormalization Group, with the goal of achieving an efficient simultaneous description of dynamic and static correlations in atomic nuclei. △ Less

Submitted 23 May, 2018; originally announced May 2018.

Comments: Invited contribution presented by H. H. at the 19th International Conference on Recent Progress in Many-Body Theories, June 25-30, 2017, APCTP, Pohang, Korea. Extended version: 30 pages, 14 figures

Neutron-proton pairing and double-beta decay in the interacting boson model

Authors: P. Van Isacker, J. Engel, K. Nomura

Abstract: Background: The interacting boson model (IBM) has been used extensively to calculate the matrix elements governing neutrinoless double-beta decay. Studies within other models indicate that a good description of neutron-proton pairing is essential for accurate calculations of those matrix elements. The usual interacting boson model is based only on like-particle pairs, however, and the extent to wh… ▽ More Background: The interacting boson model (IBM) has been used extensively to calculate the matrix elements governing neutrinoless double-beta decay. Studies within other models indicate that a good description of neutron-proton pairing is essential for accurate calculations of those matrix elements. The usual interacting boson model is based only on like-particle pairs, however, and the extent to which it captures neutron-proton pairing is not clear. Purpose: To determine whether neutron-proton pairing should be explicitly included as neutron-proton bosons in IBM calculations of neutrinoless double-beta decay matrix elements. Method: An isospin-invariant version of the nucleon-pair shell model is applied to carry out shell-model calculations in a large space and in a collective subspace, and to define effective operators in the latter. A democratic mapping is then used to define corresponding boson operators for the IBM, with and without an isoscalar neutron-proton pair boson. Results: IBM calculations with and without the isoscalar boson are carried out for nuclei near the beginning of the $pf$ shell, with a realistic shell-model Hamiltonian and neutrinoless double-beta-decay operator as the starting point. Energy spectra and double-beta matrix elements are compared to those obtained in the underlying shell model. Conclusions: The isoscalar boson does not improve energy spectra but does improve double-beta matrix elements. To be useful at the level of precision we need, the mapping procedure must be further developed to better determine the dependence of the boson Hamiltonian and decay operator on particle number and isospin. But the benefits provided by the isoscalar boson suggest that through an appropriate combination of mappings and fitting, it would make IBM matrix elements more accurate for the heavier nuclei used in experiments. △ Less

Submitted 19 August, 2017; originally announced August 2017.

Comments: 17 pages, 8 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. C 96, 064305 (2017)

Neutrinoless double-beta decay matrix elements in large shell-model spaces with the generator-coordinate method

Authors: C. F. Jiao, J. Engel, J. D. Holt

Abstract: We use the generator-coordinate method with realistic shell-model interactions to closely approximate full shell-model calculations of the matrix elements for the neutrinoless double-beta decay of $^{48}$Ca, $^{76}$Ge, and $^{82}$Se. We work in one major shell for the first isotope, in the $f_{5/2}pg_{9/2}$ space for the second and third, and finally in two major shells for all three. Our coordina… ▽ More We use the generator-coordinate method with realistic shell-model interactions to closely approximate full shell-model calculations of the matrix elements for the neutrinoless double-beta decay of $^{48}$Ca, $^{76}$Ge, and $^{82}$Se. We work in one major shell for the first isotope, in the $f_{5/2}pg_{9/2}$ space for the second and third, and finally in two major shells for all three. Our coordinates include not only the usual axial deformation parameter $β$, but also the triaxiality angle $γ$ and neutron-proton pairing amplitudes. In the smaller model spaces our matrix elements agree well with those of full shell-model diagonalization, suggesting that our Hamiltonian-based GCM captures most of the important valence-space correlations. In two major shells, where exact diagonalization is not currently possible, our matrix elements are only slightly different from those in a single shell. △ Less

Submitted 12 July, 2017; originally announced July 2017.

Comments: 8 pages, 7 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. C 96, 054310 (2017)

Status and Future of Nuclear Matrix Elements for Neutrinoless Double-Beta Decay: A Review

Authors: Jonathan Engel, Javier Menéndez

Abstract: The nuclear matrix elements that govern the rate of neutrinoless double beta decay must be accurately calculated if experiments are to reach their full potential. Theorists have been working on the problem for a long time but have recently stepped up their efforts as ton-scale experiments have begun to look feasible. Here we review past and recent work on the matrix elements in a wide variety of n… ▽ More The nuclear matrix elements that govern the rate of neutrinoless double beta decay must be accurately calculated if experiments are to reach their full potential. Theorists have been working on the problem for a long time but have recently stepped up their efforts as ton-scale experiments have begun to look feasible. Here we review past and recent work on the matrix elements in a wide variety of nuclear models and discuss work that will be done in the near future. Ab initio nuclear-structure theory, which is developing rapidly, holds out hope of more accurate matrix elements with quantifiable error bars. △ Less

Submitted 27 March, 2017; v1 submitted 20 October, 2016; originally announced October 2016.

Comments: 35 pages, 14 figures

Journal ref: Reports on Progress in Physics 80, 046301 (2017)

Beta decay of deformed r-process nuclei near A = 80 and A= 160, including odd-A and odd-odd nuclei, with the Skyrme finite-amplitude method

Authors: T. Shafer, J. Engel, C. Fröhlich, G. C. McLaughlin, M. Mumpower, R. Surman

Abstract: After identifying the nuclei in the regions near A =80 and A = 160 for which beta-decay rates have the greatest effect on weak and main r-process abundance patterns, we apply the finite-amplitude method (FAM) with Skyrme energy-density functionals (EDFs) to calculate beta-decay half-lives of those nuclei in the quasiparticle random-phase approximation (QRPA). We use the equal filling approximation… ▽ More After identifying the nuclei in the regions near A =80 and A = 160 for which beta-decay rates have the greatest effect on weak and main r-process abundance patterns, we apply the finite-amplitude method (FAM) with Skyrme energy-density functionals (EDFs) to calculate beta-decay half-lives of those nuclei in the quasiparticle random-phase approximation (QRPA). We use the equal filling approximation to extend our implementation of the charge-changing FAM, which incorporates pairing correlations and allows axially symmetric deformation, to odd-A and odd-odd nuclei. Within this framework we find differences of up to a factor of seven between our calculated beta-decay half-lives and those of previous efforts. Repeated calculations with nuclei near A = 160 and multiple EDFs show a spread of two to four in beta-decay half-lives, with differences in calculated Q values playing an important role. We investigate the implications of these results for r-process simulations. △ Less

Submitted 19 June, 2016; originally announced June 2016.

Comments: 18 pages, 16 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. C 94, 055802 (2016)

Octupole correlations in low-lying states of 150Nd and 150Sm and their impact on neutrinoless double-beta decay

Authors: J. M. Yao, J. Engel

Abstract: We present a generator-coordinate calculation, based on a relativistic energy-density functional, of the low-lying spectra in the isotopes $^{150}$Nd and $^{150}$Sm and of the nuclear matrix element that governs the neutrinoless double-beta decay of the first isotope to the second. We carefully examine the impact of octupole correlations on both nuclear structure and the double-beta decay matrix e… ▽ More We present a generator-coordinate calculation, based on a relativistic energy-density functional, of the low-lying spectra in the isotopes $^{150}$Nd and $^{150}$Sm and of the nuclear matrix element that governs the neutrinoless double-beta decay of the first isotope to the second. We carefully examine the impact of octupole correlations on both nuclear structure and the double-beta decay matrix element. Octupole correlations turn out to reduce quadrupole collectivity in both nuclei. Shape fluctuations, however, dilute the effects of octupole deformation on the double-beta decay matrix element, so that the overall octupole-induced quenching is only about 7\%. △ Less

Submitted 7 July, 2016; v1 submitted 21 April, 2016; originally announced April 2016.

Comments: 7 pages, 5 figures, to be published in Phys. Rev. C as a regular article

Nuclear Matrix Elements for Double-Beta Decay

Authors: Jonathan Engel

Abstract: Recent progress in nuclear-structure theory has been dramatic. I describe recent and future applications of ab initio calculations and the generator coordinate method to double-beta decay. I also briefly discuss the old and vexing problem of the renormalization of the weak nuclear axial-vector coupling constant "in medium" and plans to resolve it. Recent progress in nuclear-structure theory has been dramatic. I describe recent and future applications of ab initio calculations and the generator coordinate method to double-beta decay. I also briefly discuss the old and vexing problem of the renormalization of the weak nuclear axial-vector coupling constant "in medium" and plans to resolve it. △ Less

Submitted 31 October, 2015; originally announced November 2015.

Comments: Talk presented CIPANP2015. 8 pages, 4 figures

Report number: CIPANP2015-Engel

Testing the importance of collective correlations in neutrinoless $ββ$ decay

Authors: J. Menéndez, N. Hinohara, J. Engel, G. Martínez-Pinedo, T. R. Rodríguez

Abstract: We investigate the extent to which theories of collective motion can capture the physics that determines the nuclear matrix elements governing neutrinoless double-beta decay. To that end we calculate the matrix elements for a series of isotopes in the full $pf$ shell, omitting no spin-orbit partners. With the inclusion of isoscalar pairing, a separable collective Hamiltonian that is derived from t… ▽ More We investigate the extent to which theories of collective motion can capture the physics that determines the nuclear matrix elements governing neutrinoless double-beta decay. To that end we calculate the matrix elements for a series of isotopes in the full $pf$ shell, omitting no spin-orbit partners. With the inclusion of isoscalar pairing, a separable collective Hamiltonian that is derived from the shell model effective interaction reproduces the full shell-model matrix elements with good accuracy. A version of the generator coordinate method that includes the isoscalar pairing amplitude as a coordinate also reproduces the shell model results well, an encouraging result for theories of collective motion, which can include more single-particle orbitals than the shell model. We briefly examine heavier nuclei relevant for experimental double-beta decay searches, in which shell-model calculations with all spin-orbit partners are not feasible; our estimates suggest that isoscalar pairing also plays a significant role in these nuclei, though one we are less able to quantify precisely. △ Less

Submitted 11 January, 2016; v1 submitted 23 October, 2015; originally announced October 2015.

Comments: 9 pages, 7 figures, published version

Journal ref: Physical Review C 93 014305 (2016)

Global description of beta-minus decay in even-even nuclei with the axially-deformed Skyrme finite amplitude method

Authors: M. T. Mustonen, J. Engel

Abstract: We use the finite amplitude method for computing charge-changing Skyrme-QRPA transition strengths in axially-deformed nuclei together with a modern Skyrme energy-density functional to fit several previously unconstrained parameters in the charge-changing time-odd part of the functional. With the modified functional we then calculate rates of beta-minus decay for all medium-mass and heavy even-even… ▽ More We use the finite amplitude method for computing charge-changing Skyrme-QRPA transition strengths in axially-deformed nuclei together with a modern Skyrme energy-density functional to fit several previously unconstrained parameters in the charge-changing time-odd part of the functional. With the modified functional we then calculate rates of beta-minus decay for all medium-mass and heavy even-even nuclei between the valley of stability and the neutron drip line. We fit the Skyrme parameters to a limited set of beta-decay rates, a set of Gamow-Teller resonance energies, and a set of spin-dipole resonance energies, in both spherical and deformed nuclei. Comparison to available experimental beta-decay rates shows agreement at roughly the same level as in other global QRPA calculations. We estimate the uncertainty in our rates all the way to the neutron drip line through a construction that extrapolates the errors of known beta-decay rates in nuclei with intermediate Q values to less stable isotopes with higher Q values. △ Less

Submitted 7 October, 2015; originally announced October 2015.

Comments: 11 pages, 7 figures

Subtraction method in the second random--phase approximation: first applications with a Skyrme energy functional

Authors: D. Gambacurta, M. Grasso, J. Engel

Abstract: We make use of a subtraction procedure, introduced to overcome double--counting problems in beyond--mean--field theories, in the second random--phase--approximation (SRPA) for the first time. This procedure guarantees the stability of SRPA (so that all excitation energies are real). We show that the method fits perfectly into nuclear density--functional theory. We illustrate applications to the mo… ▽ More We make use of a subtraction procedure, introduced to overcome double--counting problems in beyond--mean--field theories, in the second random--phase--approximation (SRPA) for the first time. This procedure guarantees the stability of SRPA (so that all excitation energies are real). We show that the method fits perfectly into nuclear density--functional theory. We illustrate applications to the monopole and quadrupole response and to low--lying $0^+$ and $2^+$ states in the nucleus $^{16}$O. We show that the subtraction procedure leads to: (i) results that are weakly cutoff dependent; (ii) a considerable reduction of the SRPA downwards shift with respect to the random--phase approximation (RPA) spectra (systematically found in all previous applications). This implementation of the SRPA model will allow a reliable analysis of the effects of 2 particle--2 hole configurations ($2p2h$) on the excitation spectra of medium--mass and heavy nuclei. △ Less

Submitted 19 June, 2015; originally announced June 2015.

Comments: 1 tex, 16 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. C 92, 034303 (2015)

Proton-Neutron Pairing Amplitude as a Generator Coordinate for Double-Beta Decay

Authors: Nobuo Hinohara, Jonathan Engel

Abstract: We treat proton-neutron pairing amplitudes, in addition to the nuclear deformation, as generator coordinates in a calculation of the neutrinoless double-beta decay of 76Ge. We work in two oscillator shells, with a Hamiltonian that includes separable terms in the quadrupole, spin-isospin, and pairing (isovector and isoscalar) channels. Our approach allows larger single-particle spaces than the shel… ▽ More We treat proton-neutron pairing amplitudes, in addition to the nuclear deformation, as generator coordinates in a calculation of the neutrinoless double-beta decay of 76Ge. We work in two oscillator shells, with a Hamiltonian that includes separable terms in the quadrupole, spin-isospin, and pairing (isovector and isoscalar) channels. Our approach allows larger single-particle spaces than the shell model and includes the important physics of the proton-neutron quasiparticle random-phase approximation (QRPA) without instabilities near phase transitions. After comparing the results of a simplified calculation that neglects deformation with those of the QRPA, we present a more realistic calculation with both deformation and proton-neutron pairing amplitudes as generator coordinates. The future should see proton-neutron coordinates used together with energy-density functionals. △ Less

Submitted 9 September, 2014; v1 submitted 2 June, 2014; originally announced June 2014.

Comments: Published version (essentially)

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. C 90 (2014) 031301(R)

Finite Amplitude Method for Charge-Changing Transitions in Axially-Deformed Nuclei

Authors: M. T. Mustonen, T. Shafer, Z. Zenginerler, J. Engel

Abstract: We describe and apply a version of the finite amplitude method for obtaining the charge-changing nuclear response in the quasiparticle random phase approximation. The method is suitable for calculating strength functions and beta-decay rates, both allowed and forbidden, in axially-deformed open-shell nuclei. We demonstrate the speed and versatility of the code through a preliminary examination of… ▽ More We describe and apply a version of the finite amplitude method for obtaining the charge-changing nuclear response in the quasiparticle random phase approximation. The method is suitable for calculating strength functions and beta-decay rates, both allowed and forbidden, in axially-deformed open-shell nuclei. We demonstrate the speed and versatility of the code through a preliminary examination of the effects of tensor terms in Skyrme functionals on beta decay in a set of spherical and deformed open-shell nuclei. Like the isoscalar pairing interaction, the tensor terms systematically increase allowed beta-decay rates. This finding generalizes previous work in semimagic nuclei and points to the need for a comprehensive study of time-odd terms in nuclear density functionals. △ Less

Submitted 1 May, 2014; originally announced May 2014.

Comments: 11 pages, 8 figures, submitted to Physical Review C

Chiral Two-Body Currents and Neutrinoless Double-Beta Decay in the QRPA

Authors: J. Engel, F. Simkovic, P. Vogel

Abstract: We test the effects of an approximate treatment of two-body contributions to the axial-vector current on the QRPA matrix elements for neutrinoless double-beta decay in a range of isotopes. The form and strength of the two-body terms come from chiral effective-field theory. The two-body currents typically reduce the matrix elements by about 20%, not as much as in shell-model calculations. One reaso… ▽ More We test the effects of an approximate treatment of two-body contributions to the axial-vector current on the QRPA matrix elements for neutrinoless double-beta decay in a range of isotopes. The form and strength of the two-body terms come from chiral effective-field theory. The two-body currents typically reduce the matrix elements by about 20%, not as much as in shell-model calculations. One reason for the difference is that standard practice in the QRPA is to adjust the strength of the isoscalar pairing interaction to reproduce two-neutrino double-beta decay lifetimes. Another may be the larger QRPA single-particle space. Whatever the reasons, the effects on neutrinoless decay are significantly less than those on two-neutrino decay, both in the shell model and the QRPA. △ Less

Submitted 30 March, 2014; originally announced March 2014.

Comments: 6 pages, 2 figures

Ab-initio coupled-cluster effective interactions for the shell model: Application to neutron-rich oxygen and carbon isotopes

Authors: G. R. Jansen, J. Engel, G. Hagen, P. Navratil, A. Signoracci

Abstract: We derive and compute effective valence-space shell-model interactions from ab-initio coupled-cluster theory and apply them to open-shell and neutron-rich oxygen and carbon isotopes. Our shell-model interactions are based on nucleon-nucleon and three-nucleon forces from chiral effective-field theory. We compute the energies of ground and low-lying states, and find good agreement with experiment. I… ▽ More We derive and compute effective valence-space shell-model interactions from ab-initio coupled-cluster theory and apply them to open-shell and neutron-rich oxygen and carbon isotopes. Our shell-model interactions are based on nucleon-nucleon and three-nucleon forces from chiral effective-field theory. We compute the energies of ground and low-lying states, and find good agreement with experiment. In particular our calculations are consistent with the N=14, 16 shell closures in oxygen-22 and oxygen-24, while for carbon-20 the corresponding N=14 closure is weaker. We find good agreement between our coupled-cluster effective-interaction results with those obtained from standard single-reference coupled-cluster calculations for up to eight valence neutrons. △ Less

Submitted 11 February, 2014; originally announced February 2014.

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 113, 142502 (2014)

New determination of double-beta-decay properties in 48Ca: high-precision Q-value measurement and improved nuclear matrix element calculations

Authors: A. A. Kwiatkowski, T. Brunner, J. D. Holt, A. Chaudhuri, U. Chowdhury, M. Eibach, J. Engel, A. T. Gallant, A. Grossheim, M. Horoi, A. Lennarz, T. D. Macdonald, M. R. Pearson, B. E. Schultz, M. C. Simon, R. A. Senkov, V. V. Simon, K. Zuber, J. Dilling

Abstract: We report a direct measurement of the Q-value of the neutrinoless double-beta-decay candidate 48Ca at the TITAN Penning-trap mass spectrometer, with the result that Q = 4267.98(32) keV. We measured the masses of both the mother and daughter nuclides, and in the latter case found a 1 keV deviation from the literature value. In addition to the Q-value, we also present results of a new calculation of… ▽ More We report a direct measurement of the Q-value of the neutrinoless double-beta-decay candidate 48Ca at the TITAN Penning-trap mass spectrometer, with the result that Q = 4267.98(32) keV. We measured the masses of both the mother and daughter nuclides, and in the latter case found a 1 keV deviation from the literature value. In addition to the Q-value, we also present results of a new calculation of the neutrinoless double-beta-decay nuclear matrix element of 48Ca. Using diagrammatic many-body perturbation theory to second order to account for physics outside the valence space, we constructed an effective shell-model double-beta-decay operator, which increased the nuclear matrix element by about 75% compared with that produced by the bare operator. The new Q-value and matrix element strengthen the case for a 48Ca double-beta-decay experiment. △ Less

Submitted 17 August, 2013; originally announced August 2013.

Comments: 5 pages, 1 figure

Journal ref: Phys.Rev.C89:045502,2014

Effective double-beta-decay operator for 76Ge and 82Se

Authors: Jason D. Holt, Jonathan Engel

Abstract: We use diagrammatic many-body perturbation theory in combination with low-momentum interactions derived from chiral effective field theory to construct effective shell-model transition operators for the neutrinoless double-beta decay of 76Ge and 82Se. We include all unfolded diagrams to first- and second-order in the interaction and all singly folded diagrams that can be constructed from them. The… ▽ More We use diagrammatic many-body perturbation theory in combination with low-momentum interactions derived from chiral effective field theory to construct effective shell-model transition operators for the neutrinoless double-beta decay of 76Ge and 82Se. We include all unfolded diagrams to first- and second-order in the interaction and all singly folded diagrams that can be constructed from them. The resulting effective operator, which accounts for physics outside the shell-model space, increases the nuclear matrix element by about 20% in 76Ge and 30% in 82Se. △ Less

Submitted 15 April, 2013; originally announced April 2013.

Comments: 8 pages, 5 figures

Journal ref: Phys.Rev.C87:064315,2013

Computational Nuclear Quantum Many-Body Problem: The UNEDF Project

Authors: Scott Bogner, Aurel Bulgac, Joseph A. Carlson, Jonathan Engel, George Fann, Richard J. Furnstahl, Stefano Gandolfi, Gaute Hagen, Mihai Horoi, Calvin W. Johnson, Markus Kortelainen, Ewing Lusk, Pieter Maris, Hai Ah Nam, Petr Navratil, Witold Nazarewicz, Esmond G. Ng, Gustavo P. A. Nobre, Erich Ormand, Thomas Papenbrock, Junchen Pei, Steven C. Pieper, Sofia Quaglioni, Kenneth J. Roche, Jason Sarich , et al. (6 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The UNEDF project was a large-scale collaborative effort that applied high-performance computing to the nuclear quantum many-body problem. UNEDF demonstrated that close associations among nuclear physicists, mathematicians, and computer scientists can lead to novel physics outcomes built on algorithmic innovations and computational developments. This review showcases a wide range of UNEDF science… ▽ More The UNEDF project was a large-scale collaborative effort that applied high-performance computing to the nuclear quantum many-body problem. UNEDF demonstrated that close associations among nuclear physicists, mathematicians, and computer scientists can lead to novel physics outcomes built on algorithmic innovations and computational developments. This review showcases a wide range of UNEDF science results to illustrate this interplay. △ Less

Submitted 12 April, 2013; originally announced April 2013.

Electric Dipole Moments of Nucleons, Nuclei, and Atoms: The Standard Model and Beyond

Authors: Jonathan Engel, Michael J. Ramsey-Musolf, U. van Kolck

Abstract: Searches for the permanent electric dipole moments (EDMs) of molecules, atoms, nucleons and nuclei provide powerful probes of CP violation both within and beyond the Standard Model (BSM). The interpretation of experimental EDM limits requires careful delineation of physics at a wide range of distance scales, from the long-range atomic and molecular scales to the short-distance dynamics of physics… ▽ More Searches for the permanent electric dipole moments (EDMs) of molecules, atoms, nucleons and nuclei provide powerful probes of CP violation both within and beyond the Standard Model (BSM). The interpretation of experimental EDM limits requires careful delineation of physics at a wide range of distance scales, from the long-range atomic and molecular scales to the short-distance dynamics of physics at or beyond the Fermi scale. In this review, we provide a framework for disentangling contributions from physics at these disparate scales, building out from the set of dimension four and six effective operators that embody CP violation at the Fermi scale. We survey existing computations of hadronic and nuclear matrix elements associated with Fermi-scale CP violation in systems of experimental interest, and quantify the present level of theoretical uncertainty in these calculations. Using representative BSM scenarios of current interest, we illustrate how the interplay of physics at various scales generates EDMs at a potentially observable level. △ Less

Submitted 10 March, 2013; originally announced March 2013.

Comments: To appear in Prog. Part. Nucl. Phys

Large-Scale Calculations of the Double-Beta Decay of 76Ge, 130Te, 136Xe, and 150Nd in the Deformed Self-Consistent Skyrme Quasiparticle Random-Phase Approximation

Authors: M. T. Mustonen, J. Engel

Abstract: We use the axially-deformed Skyrme Quasiparticle Random-Phase Approximation (QRPA) together with the SkM* energy-density functional, both as originally presented and with the time-odd part adjusted to reproduce the Gamow-Teller resonance energy in 208Pb, to calculate the matrix elements governing the neutrinoless double-beta decay of 76Ge, 130Te, 136Xe, and 150Nd. Our matrix elements in 130Te and… ▽ More We use the axially-deformed Skyrme Quasiparticle Random-Phase Approximation (QRPA) together with the SkM* energy-density functional, both as originally presented and with the time-odd part adjusted to reproduce the Gamow-Teller resonance energy in 208Pb, to calculate the matrix elements governing the neutrinoless double-beta decay of 76Ge, 130Te, 136Xe, and 150Nd. Our matrix elements in 130Te and 136Xe are significantly smaller than those of previous QRPA calculations, primarily because of the difference in pairing or deformation between the initial and final nuclei. In 76Ge and 150Nd our results are similar to those of less computationally intensive QRPA calculations. We suspect the 76Ge result, however, because we are forced to use a spherical ground-state, even though the HFB indicates a deformed minimum. △ Less

Submitted 29 January, 2013; originally announced January 2013.

Comments: 9 pages, 4 figures

First Direct Double-Beta Decay Q-value Measurement of 82Se in Support of Understanding the Nature of the Neutrino

Authors: David L. Lincoln, Jason D. Holt, Georg Bollen, Maxime Brodeur, Scott Bustabad, Jonathan Engel, Samuel J. Novario, Matthew Redshaw, Ryan Ringle, Stefan Schwarz

Abstract: In anticipation of results from current and future double-beta decay studies, we report a measurement resulting in a 82Se double-beta decay Q-value of 2997.9(3) keV, an order of magnitude more precise than the currently accepted value. We also present preliminary results of a calculation of the 82Se neutrinoless double-beta decay nuclear matrix element that corrects in part for the small size of t… ▽ More In anticipation of results from current and future double-beta decay studies, we report a measurement resulting in a 82Se double-beta decay Q-value of 2997.9(3) keV, an order of magnitude more precise than the currently accepted value. We also present preliminary results of a calculation of the 82Se neutrinoless double-beta decay nuclear matrix element that corrects in part for the small size of the shell model single-particle space. The results of this work are important for designing next generation double-beta decay experiments and for the theoretical interpretations of their observations. △ Less

Submitted 24 November, 2012; originally announced November 2012.

Comments: 5 pages, 2 figures, accepted for publication in Physical Review Letters

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 110, 012501 (2013)