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arXiv · 1710.01002

Uncertainty of the astrophysical $^{17,18}$O($α$,n)$^{20,21}$Ne reaction rates and the applicability of the statistical model for nuclei with $A \lesssim 20$

Peter Mohr
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Abstract

Background: The ($α$,n) and ($α$,$γ$) reactions on $^{17,18}$O have significant impact on the neutron balance in the astrophysical $s$-process. In this scenario stellar reaction rates are required for relatively low temperatures below $T_9 \lesssim 1$. Purpose: The uncertainties of the $^{17,18}$O($α$,n)$^{20,21}$Ne reactions are investigated. Statistical model calculations are performed to study the applicability of this model for relatively light nuclei in extension to a recent review for the $20 \le A \le 50$ mass range. Method: The available experimental data for the $^{17,18}$O($α$,n)$^{20,21}$Ne reactions are compared to statistical model calculations. Additionally, the reverse $^{20}$Ne(n,$α$)$^{17}$O reaction is investigated, and similar studies for the $^{17}$F mirror nucleus are provided. Results: It is found that on average the available experimental data for $^{17}$O and $^{18}$O are well described within the statistical model, resulting in reliable reaction rates above $T_9 \gtrsim 1.5$ from these calculations. However, significant experimental uncertainties are identified for the $^{17}$O($α$,n$_0$)$^{20}$Ne(g.s.) channel. Conclusions: The statistical model is able to predict astrophysical reaction rates for temperatures above 1 GK with uncertainties of less than a factor of two for the nuclei under study. An experimental discrepancy for the $^{17}$O($α$,n)$^{20}$Ne reaction needs to be resolved.

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Peter Mohr. 2017-10-03. Uncertainty of the astrophysical $^{17,18}$O($α$,n)$^{20,21}$Ne reaction rates and the applicability of the statistical model for nuclei with $A \lesssim 20$. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevc.96.045808

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