Neutron-proton asymmetry of the midvelocity material in an intermediate-energy heavy-ion collision

Abstract

The $n\ensuremath{-}p$ asymmetry of the material found in the midvelocity or ``neck'' region of an intermediate energy heavy-ion reaction is determined. In order to accomplish this task, data from two different experiments are utilized. While the $n\ensuremath{-}p$ asymmetry of the light particles $(Z<~2)$ is enriched in neutrons relative to the bulk matter, the total material found at midrapidity has an asymmetry indistinguishable from that of the entire system.