12C and the triple-α reaction rate

Abstract

We briefly review the role of the triple-α reaction in astrophysics and discuss the uncertainties associated with the determination of the reaction rate. We summarize the results of three recent experimental studies of the breakup of the Hoyle state in 12C into three a particles, and we show how these results eliminate an often overlooked source of uncertainty in the determination of the triple-α reaction rate. Finally, we contemplate whether improved studies of the breakup of the Hoyle state can teach us something about the structure of the Hoyle state.