The theory of the deuteron stripping reaction

Abstract

The differential cross-section for deuteron stripping reactions at energies several million electron volts above the Coulomb barrier is calculated by a method which is essentially that of Butler as regards physical assumptions and line of argument, but which employs a different mathematical technique and notation at many points, for reasons of clarity and exactitude. The procedure is assimilated into the S -matrix formalism. The essence of the method is the smooth joining up of the wave function for the nucleon stripped off, and the derivative of this wave function, on the two sides of the surface of the target nucleus. The formula obtained is discussed, to show how the various factors arise from the successive physical stages by which the reaction proceeds. New features are ( a ) the cross-section is now given explicitly for the case in which the stripped nucleon is captured into a virtual state, as well as for the case of a bound state, as hitherto; ( b ) the factor determining the absolute magnitude of the cross-section is given explicitly in a form which would permit of estimates being made of it.