$\Lambda NN$ content of $\Lambda$-nucleus potential

Abstract

A minimally constructed $\Lambda$-nucleus density-dependent optical potential is used to calculate binding energies of observed $1s_{\Lambda}$, $1p_{\Lambda}$ states across the periodic table, leading to a repulsive $\Lambda NN$ contribution $D_{\Lambda}^{(3)}\approx 14$ MeV to the phenomenological $\Lambda$-nucleus potential depth $D_{\Lambda}\approx -30$ MeV. This value is significant in connection with the so-called 'hyperon puzzle'.