Cluster structure of the Borromean nucleus $^9\text{Be}$ and its astrophysical relevance
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63907/ansa.v1i3.54Keywords:
Nuclear clustering, Borromean nucleus, α-clusteringAbstract
The study of cluster structures in light nuclei has become a central direction in modern nuclear physics. Experimental and theoretical investigations have revealed that many light systems, such as $^6\text{He}$, $^8\text{Be}$, $^{12}\text{C}$, and others, exhibit pronounced cluster configurations that strongly influence reaction mechanisms. Particularly striking is the $\alpha\text{-cluster}$ structure of $^{12}\text{C}$ and its excited Hoyle state, which plays a key role in astrophysical nucleosynthesis. Among light nuclei, the stable yet weakly bound $^9\text{Be}$ nucleus is of special interest due to its Borromean character and competing cluster configurations, typically described as $(\alpha+\alpha+n)$ or $(^5\text{He}+\alpha)$. These structural features manifest themselves in decay channels, scattering processes, and transfer reactions, and they directly affect the cross sections relevant for astrophysical scenarios such as the $\text{triple-}\alpha$ process and the $r\text{-process}$. The paper provides a comprehensive overview of theoretical and experimental approaches to nuclear clustering, emphasizes recent advances, and examines outstanding questions concerning the structure of $^{9}\text{Be}$ and its significance in nuclear reactions and nucleosynthesis.
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