Nuclear Reaction Dynamics

Michigan State University, East Lansing MI

Investigators

Abstract

The PI's propose to conduct research on theoretical heavy ion physics. The emphasis of this proposal is reaction dynamics over a range of beam energies, from intermediate ( > 10 AMeV) to ultra-relativistic (100 AGeV). Particular attention is paid to theory that is relevant to exper- iments at the NSCL, GSI, CERN-SPS, and RHIC. The co-PIs have a long tradition of collaborating with experimental groups in the US and abroad, and they will continue to do so. Thematically, themain emphasis lies on the investigation of correlations between emitted particles, as well as phase transitions in heavy ion reactions at different energy regimes. An important component of this proposal is the theoretical support for the future Rare Isotope Accelerator (RIA) program and its connection to nuclear astrophysics. Since the RIA construction was identifed as the highest priority in theNSAC long-range plan, it is impera- tive to deepen the theoretical underpinning for this feld. The proposed topics are of present interest to the investigators in light of the present experimental situation. A traditional strength of the investi- gators is the ability to adapt their research directions to new experimental fndings, and it can be predicted that this will continue during the proposed grant period. Almost all of the funds proposed will be spent for salaries for two gradu- ate students and one post-doctoral associate. In year one, there is a request for some computer support. This is justifed, because almost all proposed research makes extensive use of numerical work.