Implications of the space-star anomaly in nd breakup

Cross-section measurements of six exit-channel configurations in nd breakup at 13.0 MeV are reported and compared to rigorous calculations. Except for the coplanar-star configuration, our data are consistent with previous data. The present data for all configurations, with the exception of the space star, are in good agreement with theoretical predictions. The previously observed large discrepancy between theory and data for the space-star configuration is confirmed in the present work. The inclusion of the Tucson-Melbourne 2π exchange three-nucleon force with a cutoff parameter that correctly binds the triton only changes the predicted cross section by 2%, a factor of 10 smaller than the amount needed to bring theory into agreement with data.

Duke Scholars

Author Calvin R. Howell Physics