K$^-$-proton scattering and the $\Lambda (1405)$ in dense matter

Abstract

The scattering of antikaons with nucleons is studied in the nuclear environment. Describing the $\lam$ as a $K^-$ proton bound state, we find, that due to the Pauli blocking of intermediate states, the mass of the $\Lambda (1405)$ is shifted upwards in energy, above the $K^-$ proton threshold and and its width is somewhat broadened. As a consequence the s-wave $K^-$--nucleon scattering length turns attractive at finite nucleon density ($\rho \geq 0.25 \rho_0$) leading to a mean field potential for the $K^-$ of about $\sim -100 \, \rm MeV$ in nuclear matter at ground state density. Consequences for Heavy Ion collisions and possible experimental checks for the structure of the $\lam$ are discussed. (Figures will be sent on request)