Unperturbed inverse kinematics nucleon knockout measurements with a carbon beam

From superconductors to atomic nuclei, strongly-interacting many-body systems are ubiquitous in nature. Measuring the microscopic structure of such is a formidable challenge, often met by particle knockout scattering experiments. While measurements fundamental for mapping their interpretation challenged quantum mechanical initial- and final-state interactions (ISI/FSI) incoming scattered particles. Here we overcome this limitation measuring quasi-free 48 GeV/c 12C ions from hydrogen. The distribution single protons studied detecting two at large angles coincidence with an intact 11B nucleus. detection shown select transparent part reaction exclude otherwise ISI/FSI that would break apart. By further residual 10B 10Be also identified short-range correlated (SRC) nucleon-nucleon pairs, provide direct experimental evidence separation pair wave-function nuclear system. All measured reactions well described theoretical calculations do not contain distortions. Our results thus showcase new ability study short-distance short-lived radioactive nuclei forthcoming FAIR FRIB facilities. These studies will be pivotal developing ground-breaking understanding properties far stability formation visible matter universe.