Measurements of Charged Current Reactions of $\nu_e$ on $^{12}C$

TL;DR

This study measures the cross sections of charged current $ u_e$ interactions with $^{12}C$ using a decay-at-rest neutrino beam, providing experimental data that aligns with some theoretical models but differs from others.

Contribution

First measurement of $ u_e$ charged current reactions on $^{12}C$ using a decay-at-rest neutrino source, with results compared to multiple theoretical models.

Findings

Measured exclusive reaction cross section: (8.9±0.3±0.9)×10^{-42} cm^2

Observed energy dependence and angular distribution agree with theory

Inclusive transition cross section is lower than some previous measurements and RPA calculations, but aligns with shell model predictions.

Abstract

Charged Current reactions of $\nu_e$ on $^{12}C$ have been studied using a $\mu^+$ decay-at-rest $\nu_e$ beam at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center. The cross section for the exclusive reaction $^{12}C(\nu_e,e^-)^{12}N_{g.s.}$ was measured to be $(8.9\pm0.3\pm0.9)\times10^{-42}$ cm$^2$. The observed energy dependence of the cross section and angular distribution of the outgoing electron agree well with theoretical expectations. Measurements are also presented for inclusive transitions to $^{12}N$ excited states, $^{12}C(\nu_e,e^-)^{12}N^*$ and compared with theoretical expectations. The measured cross section, $(4.3\pm0.4\pm0.6)\times10^{-42}$ cm$^2$, is somewhat lower than previous measurements and than a continuum random phase approximation calculation. It is in better agreement with a recent shell model calculation.