Time-dependent Hartree-Fock calculations for 16O + 16O and 40Ca + 40Ca reactions

The time-dependent Hartree-Fock approximation is applied to 16O + 16O and 40Ca + 40Ca reactions. An effective interaction which results in a local Hartree-Fock potential is used. The full time-dependent Hartree-Fock problem is reduced to two dimensions by treating the relative orbital motion of the ions in the rotating frame approximation. The detailed dynamics of the nuclear density matrix during these reactions is discussed. The deflection function, energy loss, fragment charge distribution, and ion-ion potential have been computed for several reactions and compared with available data. The physical content and limitations of our calculations are discussed.