Gamma-Ray Angular Correlation Tests for Time-Reversal Invariance in Nuclear Forces

Abstract

A systematic method for constructing tests of time-reversal invariance in nuclear forces by means of gamma-ray angular correlations is described. The transition supplying the test consists of a mixed multipole; it must be preceded by a polarizer to produce a nuclear orientation and (in all but one case) followed by a second photon which serves as an analyzer of the final nuclear orientation. The exception is a test in which one detects the linear polarization and direction of a quantum from a nucleus with initial orientation of third degree.