Self-consistent continuum random-phase approximation calculations of 4He electromagnetic responses

We study the electromagnetic responses of He-4 within the framework of the self-consistent continuum random-phase approximation theory. In this approach, the ground-state properties are described by a Hartree-Fock calculation. The single-particle basis constructed in this manner is used in the calculations of the continuum responses of the system. Finite-range interactions are considered in the calculations. We compare our results with photon-absorption cross sections and electron-scattering quasielastic data. From this comparison, and also from the comparison with the results of microscopic calculations, we deduce that our approach describes well the continuum excitation.