Three-body correlations in Borromean halo nuclei

Three-body correlations in the dissociation of two-neutron halo nuclei are explored using a technique based on intensity interferometry and Dalitz plots. This approach provides for the combined treatment of both the n-n and core-n interactions in the exit channel. As an example, the breakup of ¹⁴Be into ¹²Be+n+n by Pb and C targets has been analyzed and the halo n-n separation extracted. Evidence for a finite delay between the emission of the neutrons in the reaction on the C target was observed and is attributed to ¹³Be resonances populated in sequential breakup.