Abstract
Bound states of a Σ hyperon with a nucleus suggest several new concepts in hypernuclear research. First of all, such Σ hypernuclei should be unstable against strong interactions through the conversion process of \(\Sigma N\rightarrow \Lambda N\). Therefore, the bound states, if they exist, should have finite conversion widths. In the early days of Σ hypernuclear studies, it was believed that the width would prohibit spectroscopic investigation of Σ hypernuclei. Another novel aspect is the isospin dependence of Σ hypernuclei. This played an essential role in forming at least one bound state system, \(^4_{\Sigma }\)He. The quasi-free Σ production shape analysis for Si to In targets suggested the Σ-nucleus potential was repulsive for medium-heavy target nuclei. The Σ− is in the unique position of being the lightest negatively charged baryon. This provides a unique experimental means to probe the ΣN interactions by forming Σ− atoms. In high density hadronic matter, the large Fermi energy of electrons could be absorbed by the Σ−s while retaining the charge neutrality. At this moment, we have information on the ΣN interaction in normal nuclear matter. Information for higher density and, therefore, the short-range part of the interaction will be subjects for the future.
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Nagae, T. (2023). Σ Hypernuclei. In: Tanihata, I., Toki, H., Kajino, T. (eds) Handbook of Nuclear Physics . Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-19-6345-2_32
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-19-6345-2_32
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