arXiv · 2312.08318
$^{12}$C and $\alpha$-clusters, $0^+$ spectrum, and Hoyle-state candidates in $^{24}$Mg
Abstract
Background: A recent inelastic alpha-scattering experiment [Phys. Rev. Lett. 129, 102701 (2022)] found $0^+$ resonances in $^{24}$Mg on and above the $^{12}$C+$^{12}$C break-up threshold. It has been conjectured that the states have a $^{12}$C+$^{12}$C cluster structure, and play a similar role in accelerating $^{12}$C+$^{12}$C fusion to the manner in which the Hoyle state accelerates production of $^{12}$C in massive stars. Purpose: We wish to build up a quantitative theoretical basis for the considerations of the Hoyle-state paradigm, by calculating the distribution of the $0^+$ states in the shell, as well as in the relevant cluster models. Methods: We determine the spectrum of excited $0^+$ states in $^{24}$Mg nucleus using multiconfigurational dynamical symmetry calculations leading to a unified description of the quartet (or shell), $^{12}$C+$^{12}$C and $^{20}$Ne+$^{4}$He cluster configurations. Results: The density of $0^+$ states in the quartet spectrum is comparable to that found in experiment; however, the density of cluster states is considerably less. Conclusions: The recently observed alpha-scattering resonances do not seem to be simple $^{12}$C+$^{12}$C cluster states, but are more plausibly interpreted as fragmented cluster states due to coupling to quartet excitations, as background states.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
J. Cseh, G. Riczu, D. G. Jenkins. 2023-12-13. $^{12}$C and $\alpha$-clusters, $0^+$ spectrum, and Hoyle-state candidates in $^{24}$Mg. https://arxiv.org/abs/2312.08318
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.