The ${\mathrm{Na}}^{23}(p, \alpha ){\mathrm{Ne}}^{20}$ reaction has been studied for proton bombarding energies in the range 100 to 450 keV. Four narrow resonances were observed at proton bombarding energies $E_p=286, 338, 374, \mathrm{and} 445$ keV. Excitation functions were taken at each of these resonances, and the alpha yield, width, and resonance energy was determined for each resonance. On the basis of angular distribution measurements, spin and parity assignments have been made for the resonances at $E_p=286, 338, \mathrm{and} 374$ keV. Upper limits have been established for the nonresonant cross-section factor $S$ and for the alpha yield from resonances not observed. The ${\mathrm{Na}}^{23}(p, \alpha ){\mathrm{Ne}}^{20}$ reaction rate in stars is computed for temperatures (5-10)×${10}^8$ °K, the temperature range in which carbon burning takes place

• Received 12 April 1963

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRev.131.1723