Nucleon Correlations in Unstable Nuclei via Knockout Reactions

Abstract

We review the physical ideas and reaction theory underlying one- and two-nucleon removal from fast projectiles, quasi-free proton-induced reactions such as $(p,2p)$ and $(p,pn)$, and the use of exclusive momentum and coincidence observables to diagnose correlations. Particular emphasis is placed on the distinction between independent-particle occupancy, long-range collective and pairing correlations, tensor-driven neutron-proton correlations, and short-range correlations generated by the repulsive core and noncentral components of the nuclear interaction. The discussion develops the overlap-function language, spectroscopic factors, eikonal stripping and diffraction, distorted-wave impulse approximation, factorization and spectral functions, center-of-mass and recoil effects, two-nucleon amplitudes, pair densities, and the relation between measured cross sections and ab initio or shell-model structure. The well-known reduction of experimental single-particle strength relative to simple shell-model expectations, its dependence on separation-energy asymmetry, and the continuing debate over reaction-model systematics are treated in detail.

Comments: 15 pages. Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Physics (2006)