The two-proton decay process is studied by using a simple approach within the framework of scattering theory. We assume that the decaying nucleus is in a pairing state and, therefore, the two-particle wave function on the nuclear surface corresponds to the two protons moving in time-reversed states. This allows us to sustain a simplified version of the decay where the protons are simultaneously emitted with the same energies. We thus obtain a coupled system of radial equations with outgoing boundary conditions. We use similar proton-proton interactions to solve BCS equations and to describe external two-proton dynamics. A strong dependence of the pairing gap and decay width upon the proton-proton interaction strength is revealed. The experimental half-lives of ${}^{45}$Fe and ${}^{48}$Ni are reproduced by using a realistic proton-proton interaction.

• Received 1 June 2012

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevC.87.034328