Cranking covariant density functional theory with a shell-model-like approach for the superdeformed band of 42Ca

The superdeformed rotational band in [Formula: see text]Ca is studied with the cranking covariant density functional theory complemented by a shell-model-like approach for treating the pairing correlations. The microscopic and self-consistent description of the superdeformed rotational band is obtained. The calculated energy surfaces show local minimums at [Formula: see text] from rotational frequency [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]MeV. The shape coexistence of spherical, normal deformation and superdeformation is found at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]MeV. The single-particle levels and configurations are analyzed in details with the deformation. The configuration of the superdeformed band is figured out as [Formula: see text]. The single-particle Routhians indicate that the neutrons configuration plays a key role in the formation of the superdeformed band, and the change of the protons configuration at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]MeV terminates the superdeformed band. The importance of pairing correlation to the superdeformed band is also studied in terms of the moments of inertia and the angular momentum.