Tensor interaction in mean-field and density functional theory approaches to nuclear structure

The importance of the tensor force for nuclear structure has been recognized long ago. Recently, the interest for this topic has been revived by the study of the evolution of nuclear properties far from the stability line. However, in the context of the effective theories that describe medium-heavy nuclei, the role of the tensor force is still debated. This review focuses on ground-state properties like masses and deformation, on single-particle states, and on excited vibrational and rotational modes. The goal is to assess which properties, if any, can bring clear signatures of the tensor force within the mean-field or density functional theory framework. It will be concluded that, while evidences for a clear neutron–proton tensor force exist despite quantitative uncertainties, the role of the tensor force among equal particles is less well established.