Damping of nuclear collective and single-particle motion

The collective motion of the nuclear system is studied. In the independent-particle model, the motion is completely reversible. The neglected residual interactions couple the ph states to more complicated states. This coupling is taken into account by the optical model potential assuming independent decay of particle and hole states. Irreversibility is thereby introduced and damping of collective motion described in terms of the widths of the ph states. The validity of the assumption of independent decay is discussed. It is argued that spreading widths to low-frequency collective states are not part of the optical model, and do not contribute to damping of collective motion.