Elastic neutron scattering is a type of scattering that occurs when a neutron interacts with a target nucleus or atom and is scattered off in a different direction without losing energy. This is also known as coherent scattering, as the wavelength and energy of the neutron remain unchanged after the interaction.
Inelastic neutron scattering is a type of scattering that occurs when a neutron interacts with a target nucleus or atom and transfers energy to the nucleus, causing it to vibrate or excite to a higher energy state. This results in a change in the wavelength and energy of the neutron after the interaction.
Both elastic and inelastic neutron scattering experiments can provide information about the structure and dynamics of materials at the atomic level. Elastic scattering can determine the position of atoms in a crystal lattice, while inelastic scattering can reveal information about the vibrational and magnetic properties of materials.
Neutron scattering is a powerful tool used in a wide range of scientific research and technology. It is commonly used to study the structure and behavior of materials in fields such as physics, chemistry, biology, and materials science. It is also used in the development of new technologies, such as nuclear reactors and nuclear weapons.
Elastic and inelastic neutron scattering have many applications in industry, medicine, and research. For example, they are used in the development of new materials for electronics, transportation, and energy production. In medicine, they are used to study the structure of proteins and to develop new drugs. In research, they are used to study the behavior of materials under extreme conditions, such as high pressures and temperatures.