Three-body correlations in Borromean halo nuclei

Abstract

Three-body correlations in the dissociation of two-neutron halo nuclei are explored using a technique based on intensity interferometry and Dalitz plots. This approach provides for the combined treatment of both the $n\ensuremath{-}n$ and core-$n$ interactions in the exit channel. As an example, the breakup of ${}^{14}\mathrm{Be}$ into ${}^{12}\mathrm{Be}+n+n$ by Pb and C targets has been analyzed and the halo $n\ensuremath{-}n$ separation extracted. Evidence for a finite delay between the emission of the neutrons in the reaction on the C target was observed and is attributed to ${}^{13}\mathrm{Be}$ resonances populated in sequential breakup.