Alpha clustering and flow in ultra-relativistic heavy-ion collisions

TL;DR

This paper proposes using ultra-relativistic light-heavy ion collisions to capture ground-state configurations and cluster correlations, with collective flow analysis revealing initial geometric correlations, exemplified by 12C-208Pb collisions.

Contribution

It introduces a novel method to probe nuclear ground-state structures and cluster correlations through ultra-relativistic collision experiments.

Findings

Flow development reflects initial geometric correlations.

Analysis of 12C-208Pb collisions demonstrates the method.

Cluster configurations can be inferred from collision data.

Abstract

We show how ultra-relativistic collisions of light nuclei with heavy targets may be used to record snap-shots of the ground-state configurations and reveal information on cluster correlations. The development of collective flow in the formed fireball, which reflects the geometric correlations in the initial state, is essential for the method. As an illustration we analyze the 12C-208Pb collisions.