A Relativistic Theory of Few-Nucleon Systems

Abstract

This talk provides an overview of recent results for two- and three-nucleon systems obtained within the framework of the covariant spectator theory (CST). The main features of two recently published models for the neutron–proton interaction, that fit the 2007 world data base containing several thousands of neutron-proton scattering data below 350 MeV with χ 2/N data ≈ 1, are presented. These one-boson-exchange models, called WJC-1 and WJC-2, have a considerably smaller number of adjustable parameters than are present in realistic nonrelativistic potentials. When applied to the three-nucleon bound state, the correct binding energy is obtained without additional three-body forces. First calculations of the electromagnetic form factors of helium-3 and the triton in complete impulse approximation also give very reasonable results. One can conclude that the CST yields a very efficient description of few-nucleon systems, in which the relativistic formulation of the dynamics is an essential element.