Few-body effects in nuclear halos Original Research Article

Nuclear halos are spatially extended quantum states with large cluster components. Characteristic observable properties of two- and three-body halo structures are discussed in general terms suited for generalization of the concept. Specific properties of known nuclear halos are used as examples. The bound-state structure is basically understood in contrast to the three-body continuum structure. The high-energy reaction mechanism is roughly understood but not accurately worked out and tested in details. Open questions and challenges are indicated.