The discussion revolves around the calculation of the energy level of the carbon nucleus, specifically the 7.65 MeV level, in the context of the triple alpha process. Participants explore the mass values of helium-4 and beryllium-8, their implications for energy calculations, and the effects of ionization at high temperatures.
Participants express differing views on the correct mass values and the implications for energy calculations, with no consensus reached on the correct approach or final energy level. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing calculations and interpretations.
Participants highlight the importance of considering ionization effects and the inclusion of binding energies in their calculations, which may affect the outcomes. There are also references to specific historical papers that may influence the understanding of the energy levels discussed.
damosuz said:4,002602 u is helium-4 including mass of electrons, but at 100 MK, helium-4 must be completely ionized, so I guess you should take mass of alpha particle...
The resonance is just close enough to be strong, but not that close to the sum of masses.The important energy level of the C12 nucleus in the present problem is one very recently identified by Dunbar, Pixley, Wenzel, and Whaling (1953). This level occurs at about 7.68 mev above ground level, which corresponds to a value of E_R of about 0.31 mev (It will be recalled that E_R is measured relative to the sum of the masses of Be8 and alpha-particle, this being about 7.37 mev above the ground level of C12