We discuss the derivation of an equivalent polarization potential independent of angular momentum $l$ for use in the optical Schrödinger equation that describes the elastic scattering of heavy ions. Three different methods are used for this purpose. Application of our theory to the low energy scattering of light heavy-ion systems at near-barrier energies is made. It is found that the notion of an $l$-independent polarization potential has some validity but cannot be a good substitute for the $l$-dependent local equivalent Feshbach polarization potential.

• Received 22 November 2007

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevC.77.034609