On the possible detection of 4n events in the breakup of 14Be

TL;DR

This paper investigates the potential detection of a bound tetraneutron in the breakup of 14Be, considering resonance signals and alternative detection methods, expanding on previous experimental approaches.

Contribution

It introduces new considerations for detecting 4n states, including resonance signals and non-elastic detection processes, enhancing previous experimental strategies.

Findings

Analysis of low-energy 4n resonance signals

Evaluation of detection via non-elastic processes

Discussion of complementary search methods

Abstract

In a recent paper --F.M. Marques et al, PRC 65 (2002) 044006-- a new approach to the production and detection of free neutron clusters was proposed and applied to data acquired for the breakup of 14Be. Six events that exhibited characteristics consistent with a bound tetraneutron were observed in coincidence with 10Be fragments. Here, two issues that were not considered in the original paper are addressed: namely the signal expected from a low-energy 4n resonance, and the detection of a bound 4n through proccesses other than elastic scattering by a proton. Searches complementary to the original study are also briefly noted.