A tabulated absorption cross section is a numerical value that represents the probability of a molecule absorbing a photon of a specific energy. It is used to calculate the absorption of radiation by a particular molecule in a given environment.
Tabulated absorption cross sections are typically measured through laboratory experiments using spectroscopy techniques. These experiments involve passing a known amount of radiation through a sample of the molecule and measuring the amount of radiation that is absorbed.
The value of a tabulated absorption cross section can be affected by several factors, including the energy of the incident radiation, the physical properties of the molecule (such as size and shape), and the surrounding environment (such as temperature and pressure).
Tabulated absorption cross sections are used in a variety of scientific research fields, such as atmospheric science, astrophysics, and environmental science. They are essential for understanding the absorption of radiation by molecules in these environments and for developing accurate models and simulations.
No, tabulated absorption cross sections can vary depending on the conditions in which they are measured. For example, a molecule may have a different absorption cross section at different temperatures or in the presence of other molecules. Therefore, it is important to use the appropriate tabulated absorption cross section for a specific environment or condition.