Effect of isospin dependent cluster recognition on the observables in heavy ion collisions

TL;DR

This paper introduces isospin dependence into cluster recognition algorithms in heavy ion collision models, significantly affecting fragment yields and isospin-sensitive observables, and explores its impact on collision equilibration.

Contribution

The study implements isospin dependence in cluster recognition algorithms within the Quantum Molecular Dynamics model, revealing its effects on fragment yields and isospin-sensitive observables.

Findings

Enhanced yields of heavier, neutron-rich fragments at mid-rapidity.

Altered isotope distributions and yield ratios such as n/p and t/^3He.

Impact on the degree of equilibration in heavy ion collisions.

Abstract

We introduce isospin dependence in the cluster recognition algorithms used in the Quantum Molecular Dynamics model to describe fragment formation in heavy ion collisions. This change reduces the yields of emitted nucleons and enhances the yields of fragments, especially heavier fragments. The enhancement of neutron-rich lighter fragments mainly occurs at mid-rapidity. Consequently, isospin dependent observables, such as isotope distributions, yield ratios of $n/p$, $t/^3He$, and isoscaling parameters are affected. We also investigate how equilibration in heavy ion collisions is affected by this change.