Microscopic study of nuclear “pasta”: Quantum molecular dynamics approach

Abstract

Structure of cold dense matter at subnuclear densities is investigated by quantum molecular dynamics (QMD) simulations. We succeeded in showing that the phases with slab-like and rod-like nuclei etc. can be formed dynamically without any assumptions on the nuclear shape. We also observe intermediate phases, which has complicated nuclear shapes. Geometrical structures of matter are analyzed, and it is found out that intemediate phases can be characterized as those with negative Euler characteristic.