The Geometric Origin of Neutron Star Universal Relations: Shell Closure, Sign-Flip Geometry, and the Bridge Between Nuclear Structure and I-Love-Q Universality

Key Points

• The study aims to connect microscopic nuclear structure with the macroscopic behaviors of neutron stars through universal relations.
• Utilized GCT to explore relationships between nuclear structure and neutron star properties.
• Mapped shell closures to cascade boundaries and nuclear shape coexistence to sign-flip geometry.
• Examined symmetry energy slope and EOS insensitivity related to neutron star observations.
• Leveraged AME2020 database for verification of findings.
• Developed five testable predictions based on existing neutron star observations.
• Established a connection between nuclear shell closures and cascade boundaries.
• Demonstrated the mapping of nuclear shape coexistence to sign-flip zones.
• Found that the symmetry energy slope relates to a specific resolution parameter.
• Highlighted model-independence in cascade-resolved invariants concerning I-Love-Q relations.
• Outlined five predictions that can be tested using the AME2020 database.