Model--space approach to $^{1}S_{0}$ neutron and proton pairing with the Bonn meson--exchange potentials

Abstract

In this work we calculate neutron and proton energy gaps in neutron star matter, using the Bonn meson--exchange interactions and a model--space approach to the gap equation. This approach allows a consistent calculation of energy gaps and single particle energies with the model--space Brueckner--Hartree--Fock (MBHF) method, without double counting of two--particle correlations. Neutron energy gaps are calculated at zero and finite temperature. Proton energy gaps are calculated at beta equilibrium, and it is shown that the inclusion of muons has a significant effect. The results are compared with those of other works, and the implications for neutron star physics are briefly discussed.