In-beam nuclear gamma-ray studies of relativistic heavy ion reactions

Abstract

Abstract Discrete nuclear γ-rays following interactions of relativistic 12 C and α projectiles with Sr, Na, S and Ca targers were measured in-beam with Ge(Li) detectors. The observed γ-rays were due mostly to the first-excited-state-to-ground transitions of target fragments produced in peripheral collisions of the heavy ions. Characteristic features of the peripheral process consistent with the projectile-fragment studies were observed. The general behavior of the reactions was qualitatively understood with a picture of a fast-cascade followed by evaporation.