Alpha-cluster description of excitation energies in 12C(12C,3 alpha)X at 2.1A GeV.

An alpha-cluster expansion of the Glauber multiple scattering [correction of scatteirng] series is used to calculate the energy transfer spectrum to the 12C projectile in the 12C(12C,3 alpha)X reaction at 2.1A GeV. Cluster-abrasion response functions are defined in terms of alpha-cluster wave function and the collision dynamics appropriate for heavy-ion reactions. Comparisons are made to recent quasiexclusive experimental data with good agreement found. Calculations indicate that substructures in a 12C projectile are likely to be true spectators in fragmentation, however, with virtual states of excitation in the projectile ground state making a significant contribution to the fragmentation cross section.