Griffiths Introduction to Elementary Particles · Problem 4.33

Bound States — David J. Griffiths

Physics — QFT · alpha-particle-isospin

Problem

(a) The α\alpha particle is a bound state of two protons and two neutrons, that is, a 4^4He nucleus. There is no isotope of hydrogen with an atomic weight of four (4H^4H), nor of lithium 4^4Li. What do you conclude about the isospin of an α\alpha particle? (b) The reaction d+d→α+π0d + d \to \alpha + \pi^0 has never been observed. Explain why not. (c) Would you expect 4^4Be to exist? How about a bound state of four neutrons?

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