$\bar K^*$ meson in dense matter

Understand

We study the properties of $\bar K^*$ mesons in nuclear matter using a unitary approach in coupled channels within the framework of the local hidden gauge formalism and incorporating the $\bar K \pi$ decay channel in matter.

• The in-medium $\bar K^* N$ interaction accounts for Pauli blocking effects and incorporates the $\bar K^*$ self-energy in a self-consistent manner.
• We also obtain the $\bar K^*$ (off-shell) spectral function and analyze its behaviour at finite density and momentum.
• At normal nuclear matter density, the $\bar K^*$ meson feels a moderately attractive potential while the $\bar K^*$ width becomes five times larger than in free space.