Abstract
The low-energy reaction C14(n,γ)C15 provides a rare opportunity to test indirect methods for the determination of neutron capture cross sections by radioactive isotopes versus direct measurements. It is also important for various astrophysical scenarios. Currently, puzzling disagreements exist between the C14(n,γ)C15 cross sections measured directly, determined indirectly, and calculated theoretically. To solve this puzzle, we offer a strong test based on a novel idea that the amplitudes for the virtual C15→C14+n and the real F15→O14+p decays are related. Our study of this relation, performed in a microscopic model, shows that existing direct and some indirect measurements strongly contradict charge symmetry in the C15 and F15 mirror pair. This brings into question the experimental determinations of the astrophysically important (n,γ) cross sections for short-lived radioactive targets. © 2006 The American Physical Society.