Quantum time scales in alpha tunneling

TL;DR

This paper revisits the quantum time scales involved in alpha decay, showing that the transmission dwell time correlates with the nucleus's half-life, using microscopic potentials for detailed analysis.

Contribution

It introduces a detailed analysis of quantum time scales in alpha decay, emphasizing the role of transmission dwell time in determining decay lifetimes.

Findings

Transmission dwell time aligns with measured half-lives.

Microscopic potentials improve tunneling time estimates.

Alpha decay half-life relates to the time alpha spends in front of the barrier.

Abstract

The theoretical treatment of alpha decay by Gamow is revisited by investigating the quantum time scales in tunneling. The time spent by an alpha particle in front of the barrier and traversing it before escape is evaluated using microscopic alpha nucleus potentials. The half-life of a nucleus is shown to correspond to the time spent by the alpha knocking in front of the barrier. Calculations for medium and super heavy nuclei show that from a multitude of available tunneling time definitions, the transmission dwell time gives the bulk of the lifetime of the decaying state, in most cases.