Reply to comments on `Structure effects in the $^{15}$N($n,\gamma$)$^{16}$N radiative capture reaction from the Coulomb dissociation of $^{16}$N'

TL;DR

This paper defends the importance of including non-resonant continuum effects in reaction theory to explain energy-dependent branching ratios in the $^{15}$N(n,gamma)$^{16}$N reaction, emphasizing its impact on low-energy capture cross sections.

Contribution

It demonstrates that energy dependence of branching ratios arises from proper inclusion of non-resonant continuum, clarifying spectroscopic factors and low-energy capture cross sections.

Findings

Energy dependence linked to non-resonant continuum inclusion

Sensitivity to orbital angular momentum content

Resolution of spectroscopic factor discrepancies

Abstract

We reply to the comments (arXiv:1605.07499 [nucl-th]) on "Structure effects in the $^{15}$N($n,\gamma$)$^{16}$N radiative capture reaction from the Coulomb dissociation of $^{16}$N". We have investigated the issue of "energy dependence of branching ratios" and believe that this energy dependence is due to the proper inclusion of the non-resonant continuum in the post-form reaction theory. Interestingly, this energy dependence is sensitive to the relative orbital angular momentum content of the state. We reiterate that we have attempted to resolve the discrepancy in the spectroscopic factors of low-lying $^{16}$N levels and that it is essential to know the low energy $^{15}$N($n,\gamma$)$^{16}$N capture cross section, especially below 0.25 MeV.