Reconstructed 4He charge structure: Insights from Patterson function analysis
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Through Patterson function analysis combined with scaling, the charge distribution of ⁴He has been reconstructed in a model‑independent manner. The resulting density is strictly positive, dominated by a sharp central peak of 509.1 fm⁻³ and a compact half‑maximum radius of 0.174 fm. These values are far below conventional charge radius estimates, pointing to an unusually concentrated distribution. At the same time, the profile retains a diffuse tail, reflecting the extended nature of nuclear charge. The reconstruction yields a net charge of 14.7, well above the physical value of 2, illustrating both the strengths and limitations of the empirical approach. Taken together, the results highlight Patterson analysis as a complementary tool for imaging nucleons and light nuclei, while situating ⁴He within a broader comparative framework.
Author: Yuen, Pui Sum
Language: English
Subfield: Nuclear and High Energy Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7169494413
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