Continuum random phase approximation approach to charged-current neutrino-nucleus scattering

We present continuum random phase approximation (CRPA) calculations for charged-current neutrino-nucleus scattering. The CRPA formalism is based on a Green’s-function approach, and the calculations can be done in a self-consistent fashion when using an effective nucleon-nucleon force of the Skyrme type. We analyze the technical aspects related to the description of charge-exchange reactions within this approach, and study the sensitivity of the results to the single-particle characteristics of the formalism. Muon capture is studied as a test case. In applications of the formalism, we concentrate on neutrino-scattering off ¹²C and ¹⁶O, and pay attention to interactions of experimental interest.