Microscopic description of nuclear fission dynamics

Abstract

We discuss possible avenues to study fission dynamics starting from a time-dependent mean-field approach. Previous attempts to study fission dynamics using the time-dependent Hartree–Fock (TDHF) theory are analyzed. We argue that different initial conditions may be needed to describe fission dynamics depending on the specifics of the fission phenomenon and propose various approaches toward this goal. In particular, we provide preliminary calculations for studying fission following a heavy-ion reaction using TDHF with a density constraint. Regarding prompt muon-induced fission, we also suggest a new approach for combining the time evolution of the muonic wavefunction with a microscopic treatment of fission dynamics via TDHF.