Search for possible alpha-condensate states in $^{20}$Ne

TL;DR

This study investigates the radii of excited states in $^{20}$Ne through scattering experiments, finding potential signs of alpha-condensate structures, especially in the 0$_{2}^{+}$ state, analogous to the Hoyle state in $^{12}$C.

Contribution

First experimental deduction of $^{20}$Ne excited state radii using diffraction scattering, suggesting possible alpha-condensate structure in the 0$_{2}^{+}$ state.

Findings

No significant radius increase in K$^{ u}$ = 0$_{1}^{+}$ and 2$^{-}$ bands.

20% radius enhancement in K$^{ u}$ = 0$_{1}^{-}$ band.

Increased radius observed in the 0$_{2}^{+}$ state, indicating possible alpha-condensate structure.

Abstract

The root mean square radii of $^{20}$Ne in the short-lived excited states were experimentally deduced for the first time from the analyses of $\alpha$+$^{20}$Ne diffraction scattering. Differential cross sections of the elastic and inelastic $\alpha$+$^{20}$Ne scattering in the incident energy range from a few MeV/nucleon up to 100 MeV/nucleon were analyzed by the modified diffraction model. No significant radius enhancement for the members of K$^{\pi}$ = 0$_{1}^{+}$ and K$^{\pi}$ = 2$^{-}$ bands in comparison with the ground state was observed. At the same time 20 % radius enhancement was obtained for the K$^{\pi}$ = 0$_{1}^{-}$ band members. Moreover, for the 0$_{2}^{+}$ state located above $\alpha$-emission threshold increased radius was observed. This result can speak in favor of possible $\alpha$-condensate structure of the 0$_{2}^{+}$ state and can be considered as a possible analog of the famous 7.65-MeV 0$_{2}^{+}$ Hoyle state of $^{12}$C.