Coupled-channel evaluations of cross sections for scattering involving particle-unstable resonances

TL;DR

This paper investigates how scattering cross sections are affected when the target states are unstable resonances, using a multi-channel algebraic scattering method for nucleon-nucleus interactions, highlighting significant differences from stable assumptions.

Contribution

It introduces a framework for evaluating scattering involving particle-unstable resonances, demonstrating the impact on cross sections through two case studies.

Findings

Resonance widths significantly alter cross section calculations.

Unstable target states lead to notable differences in scattering outcomes.

The method provides insights into particle-unstable nuclear interactions.

Abstract

How does the scattering cross section change when the colliding bound-state fragments are allowed particle-emitting resonances? This question is explored in the framework of a multi-channel algebraic scattering method of determining nucleon-nucleus cross sections at low energies. Two cases are examined, the first being a gedanken investigation in which n + carbon-12 scattering is studied with the target states assigned artificial widths. The second is a study of neutron scattering from beryllium-8; a nucleus that is particle unstable. Resonance character of the target states markedly varies evaluated cross sections from those obtained assuming stability in the target spectrum.