Nucleus-nucleus potential at close contact from fusion at "high" energies

Abstract

We compile the results of analyses, based upon the potential barrier penetration model, of fusion cross section measurements at ''high'' energies (those on the high-energy side of the bend in the sigma/sub fus/ vs 1/E/sub c.m./ plot). A systematic correlation between the critical radius R/sub cr/ and the potential V/sub cr/ at that radius is demonstrated. These results provide information about the nucleus-nucleus potential at smaller distances than is usually available from scattering and ''low'' energy fusion measurements. For some systems, nuclear potential depths of as much as -110 MeV are implied.