Pions and Nuclei

TLDR

Pions are central to nuclear physics, generating the nuclear force, forming part of the many‑body problem, and serving as probes that have revealed a rich array of phenomena. The book aims to systematically and coherently examine the underlying physical picture behind these diverse pion‑induced phenomena. The authors emphasize the interplay between physical concepts and experimental facts, present formal tools in appendices, and target advanced students and researchers.

Abstract

The pion plays an outstanding role in nuclear physics as a generator of the nuclear force and as an important part of the nuclear many-body problem. At the same time, pion beams are used as probes to explore the nucleus and its interactions. As pion physics has matured over the years, a rich and diverse variety of phenomena has been uncovered. The aim of this book is to examine the underlying physical picture behind these phenomena in a systematic and coherent way. The authors emphasize the interplay between physical concepts and experimental facts more than the formal tools, which are presented in a series of appendices. The book is directed towards advanced students as well as research workers