Classical cluster formation, application to multifragmentation of nuclei

An approach based on a simple criterion, which allows us to decide whether the bond between two nucleons is effective or not, is proposed to study cluster formation. Assuming that nucleons can be assimilated to classical ''objects'' in interaction, the total energy of the two-body system is compared to zero. The criterion is extended to 1-N nucleon bonds in order to include ''in-medium'' effects. Using a realistic nucleon-nucleon interaction, which includes both nuclear and Coulomb contributions, global properties of nuclei in their ground state are correctly reproduced. It allows us to obtain reliable results in the case of an excited and/or extended nucleus. A detail comparison, between the results of our model and ALADIN data (Au+Cu at 600A MeV), shows an encouraging agreement. ((orig.))