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Radiative decay branching ratio of the Hoyle state

Journal Article · · Physical Review. C
The triple-alpha process is a vital reaction in nuclear astrophysics, characterized by two consecutive reactions [2α ⇌ 8Be (α, γ) 12C] that drive carbon formation. The second reaction occurs through the Hoyle state, a 7.65 MeV excited state in 12C with Jπ = 0+. The rate of the process depends on the radiative width, which can be determined by measuring the branching ratio for electromagnetic decay. Recent measurements by Kibédi et al. conflicted with the adopted value and resulted in a significant increase of nearly 50% in this branching ratio, directly affecting the triple-alpha reaction. Here, this work aims to utilize charged-particle spectroscopy with magnetic selection as a means to accurately measure the total radiative branching ratio (Γrad/Γ) of the Hoyle state in 12C.
Research Organization:
Texas A&M University, College Station, TX (United States). Cyclotron Institute
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA); USDOE Office of Science (SC)
Grant/Contract Number:
FG02-93ER40773; NA0003841
OSTI ID:
2329285
Alternate ID(s):
OSTI ID: 2473311
Journal Information:
Physical Review. C, Journal Name: Physical Review. C Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 109; ISSN 2469-9985
Publisher:
American Physical Society (APS)Copyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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Figures / Tables (10)


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