Statistical Model Analysis of (n, α) Cross Sections for 4.0-6.5 MeV Neutrons

Abstract

The statistical model based on the Weisskopf-Ewing theory and constant nuclear temperature approximation is used for systematical analysis of the 4.0-6.5 MeV neutron induced (n, α) reaction cross sections. The α-clusterization effect was considered in the (n, α) cross sections. A certain dependence of the (n, α) cross sections on the relative neutron excess parameter of the target nuclei was observed. The systematic regularity of the (n, α) cross sections behaviour is useful to estimate the same reaction cross sections for unstable isotopes. The results of our analysis can be used for nuclear astrophysical calculations such as helium burning and possible branching in the s-process.