Dynamical α-cluster model of 16O

We calculate the low-lying spectrum of the O-16 nucleus using an alpha-cluster model which includes the important tetrahedral and square configurations. Our approach is motivated by the dynamics of alpha-particle scattering in the Skyrme model. We are able to replicate the large energy splitting that is observed between states of identical spin but opposite parities. We also provide a novel interpretation of the first excited state of O-16 and make predictions for the energies of 6(-) states that have yet to be observed experimentally.