Visualization of rotational bands of 12C via two-cluster overlap amplitudes

The formation of rotational bands is one of the most intriguing characteristics of nuclear systems. Using the microscopic cluster model, the rotational bands of 12 C are analyzed in light of 3 α correlations. The configurations of various rotational bands, including the ground band and the Hoyle band, are distinctly visualized through the calculated two-cluster overlap amplitudes. Furthermore, the breathing band, built on the 0 3 + state with breathing-mode features compared to the Hoyle state, and the gas-like K π = 1 − band are also recognized. It is demonstrated that the two-cluster overlap amplitude can serve as a new probe for identifying rotational bands in light nuclei.