Thermodynamic oscillator model for elastic nuclear form factors

Abstract

An elastic form factor of the form F(Q2)=const·K1(z)/z, where z=√a2 + Q2/ ¯Q02 depends on the two parametersa and Q0, is obtained on the basis of an oscillator model with a temperature continuum. An estimate of the parameters of the model is obtained for medium and heavy nuclei regarded as a nucleon gas, and for the nucleon and the deuteron regarded as a quark gas. The model gives a good description of the electromagnetic form factors of the neutron, the proton, and the deuteron in the wide range of momentum transfers 0 <Q2< 6 (GeV/c)2. For heavier nuclei, starting with3He, the quark contribution can be disregarded.