Narrow lines from alpha-alpha reactions

Abstract

Intensities and spectral shapes of the prompt gamma-ray lines of Li-7 at 0.431 MeV and Be-7 at 0.478 MeV and of the delayed 0.478-MeV line, all resulting from alpha-alpha reactions, are calculated using recent direct measurements of the cross sections for the alpha-alpha reactions. It is found that the intensities of these lines are comparable to that of the 4.44-MeV line of C-12, so that the investigated lines should be observable in large solar flares, provided their Doppler widths are not excessively large. An evaluation of the shapes of the prompt lines indicates that for an isotropic distribution of energetic alpha-particles, the two lines merge into a broad feature which essentially cannot be distinguished from the continuum. A situation in which the delayed 0.478-MeV line could be very narrow is considered.