Tetrahedral symmetry in the ground state of 16O

Abstract

Based on the Skyrme energy density functional, the self-consistent HF calculations have been performed for 16O, and the results show that the double point group tetrahedral symmetry TdD may play an important role in the configuration of many-body fermion system in the ground state of 16O. The corresponding total density distribution in the ground state, calculated by using the HF wave functions, presents the distinct 4α cluster-like tetrahedral structure with the Td symmetry. Among others, the necessary restoration of the rotational and parity symmetry, plays a crucial role for the occurrence of the tetrahedral symmetry in 16O. Keywords: Tetrahedral symmetry, Cluster-like structure