Source breakup dynamics in Au+Au Collisions at s(NN)**(1/2) = 200-GeV via three-dimensional two-pion source imaging

Collaboration
Dec, 2007
6 pages
Published in:
  • Phys.Rev.Lett. 100 (2008) 232301
e-Print:
Experiments:

Citations per year

2008201220162020202402468
Abstract: (arXiv)
A three-dimensional (3D) correlation function obtained from mid-rapidity, low pT pion pairs in central Au+Au collisions at sqrt(s_NN)=200 GeV is studied. The extracted model-independent source function indicates a long range tail in the directions of the pion pair transverse momentum (out) and the beam (long). Model comparisons to these distensions indicate a proper breakup time \tau_0 ~ 9 fm/c and a mean proper emission duration \Delta\tau ~ 2 fm/c, leading to sizable emission time differences (<|\Delta \tau_LCM |> ~ 12 fm/c), partly due to resonance decays. They also suggest an outside-in 'burning' of the emission source reminiscent of many hydrodynamical models.
  • 25.75.Ld
  • nucleus nucleus: colliding beams
  • scattering: heavy ion
  • gold
  • correlation: two-pion
  • transverse momentum: low
  • correlation function
  • correlation: moment
  • pi: formation
  • PHENIX