Level Density Studies via Proton Evaporation

Nuclear level densities are of great importance to astrophysical phenomena, which require an understanding of nuclear reaction rates. Existing theoretical Hauser-Feshbach models vary by factors of three or more when used to calculate reaction rates. Thus, additional measurements of nuclear level densities are necessary to improve existing models. The common method of using particle evaporation from compound nuclear reactions is known for its ability to study the nuclear level density. Proton evaporation is then a natural approach to further current understanding. Preliminary results in the study of Al(12C,p) data from the Edwards Accelerator Laboratory will be presented.