We use the continuum random phase approximation to describe the muon capture on ${}_{}{}^{12}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{C}$${,}^{16}$O, and ${}_{}{}^{40}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{Ca}$. We reproduce the experimental total capture rates on these nuclei to better than 10% using the free nucleon weak form factors and two different residual interactions. However, the calculated rates for the same residual interactions are significantly lower than the data if the in-medium quenching of the axial-vector coupling constant is employed.

• Received 31 May 1994

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevC.50.2576