It is shown that a simple $s$-wave separable interaction whose parameters are determined by a fit to the binding energy and density of nuclear matter, when modified by making the strength a smooth function of the mass number $A$ (such that the strength approaches that for nuclear matter as $A\to \infty$), gives the binding energy and radii of spherical nuclei throughout the Periodic Table in excellent agreement with experimental values. This behavior of the strength as a function of $A$ is discussed in the light of the results of calculations which use realistic interactions.

• Received 8 February 1971

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevC.3.2091