---
abstract: |
    Deeply bound KNN, KNNN and KNNNN states are discussed. The effective force exerted by the K meson on the nucleons is calculated with static nucleons. Next the binding energies are obtained by solving the Schrödinger equation or by variational calculations.

    The dominant attraction comes from the S-wave $\Lambda(1405)$ and an additional contribution is due to $\Sigma(1385)$. The latter state is formed at the nuclear peripheries and absorbs a sizable piece of the binding energy. It also generates new branches of quasi-bound states. The lowest binding energies based on a phenomenological KN input fall into the 40-80 MeV range for KNN, 90-150 MeV for KNNN and 120-220 MeV for K$\alpha$ systems. The uncertainties are due to unknown KN interactions in the distant subthreshold energy region.
address:
- 'Andrzej So[ł]{}tan Institute for Nuclear Studies 00-681 Warsaw, Hoza 69, Poland [^1]\'
- 'Helsinki Institute of Physics, P.O. Box 64, FIN-00014, Finland [^2]\'
author:
- 'S. Wycech'
- 'A.M. Green'
title: 'Variational calculations for K-few-nucleon systems'
---

Introduction 
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In this paper a quantitative understanding of Kaon-few-nucleon quasi-bound states is attempted. In recent years, the existence of such states has been vividly discussed. It was initiated by the KEK finding of 