Clustering effects induced by light nuclei

Abstract

Since the pioneering discovery, half a century ago, of 12C+12C molecular resonances, a great deal of research work has been undertaken in theSince the pioneering discovery, half a century ago, of 12C+12C molecular resonances, a great deal of research work has been undertaken in the alpha-clustering study. Our knowledge in the physics of nuclear molecules has increased considerably and nuclear clustering remains one of the most fruitful domains of nuclear physics, facing some of the greatest challenges and opportunities in the years ahead. In this work, the occurence of "exotic" shapes in light N=Z alpha-like nuclei is investigated. Various approaches of superdeformed and hyperdeformed bands associated with quasimolecular resonant structures are presented. Clustering aspects are also discussed for light nuclei with neutron excess through very recent results on neutron-rich Oxygen isotopes.