Tensor-force-driven Jahn-Teller effect and shape transitions in exotic Si isotopes

Abstract

We show how the shape evolution of the neutron-rich exotic Si and S isotopes can be understood as a Jahn-Teller effect that comes in part from the tensor-driven evolution of single-particle energies. The detailed calculations we present are in excellent agreement with known experimental data, and we point out of new features that should be explored in new experiments. Potential energy surfaces are used to understand the shape evolutions. The sub-shell closed nucleus, $^{42}$Si, is shown to be a perfect example of a strongly oblate shape instead of a sphere through a robust Jahn-Teller mechanism. The distribution of spectroscopic factors measured by $^{48}$Ca(e,e'p) experiment is shown to be well described, providing a unique test on the tensor-driven shell evolution.