How Do I Solve These Scattering Cross Section Problems?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around scattering cross section problems in the context of quantum mechanics or particle physics. Participants are exploring equations related to differential cross sections and scattering amplitudes, specifically focusing on the relationships between various parameters and functions involved in the scattering process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive expressions for the differential cross section and total cross section but expresses uncertainty about the sufficiency of their setup. They seek tips on how to proceed with the problems.
  • Some participants suggest relevant equations and methods, while others question the implications of a potential typo in the original equations.
  • There is discussion about the need for explicit forms of scattering amplitudes and the challenges posed by infinite summations in the context of the problem.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing insights and suggestions based on their understanding. There is a recognition of the complexity of the problems, and multiple interpretations are being explored. Some guidance has been offered regarding relevant equations, but no consensus has been reached on the best approach to take.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the presence of a potential typo in the equations, which may affect the interpretation of the problem. There is also an acknowledgment that certain information, such as the explicit form of the scattering amplitude, may be necessary to advance further.

Diracobama2181
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Homework Statement
Suppose I am given the scattering cross section $$\sigma(\theta)=\alpha+\beta cos(\theta)+\gamma cos^2(theta)$$

a) Find the scattering amplitude.
b) Express α, β and γ in terms of the phase shifts δl
(c) Are there any constraints on the magnitudes of α, β and γ if the
scattering amplitude is not allowed to grow any faster than ln E as the
energy E becomes very large?
(d) Deduce the total scattering cross-section and show that it is consistent with the optical theorem.
Relevant Equations
$$\frac{d\sigma}{d \Omega}=|f(\theta)|^2$$
$$\sigma=\frac{4 \pi}{k}\sum_{l=0}^{\infty}(2l+1)sin^2(\delta_{l})$$
a) I have $$d\sigma=-\beta sin(\theta)d(\theta)+2\gamma sin(\theta)cos(\theta) d\theta$$
and $$d \Omega=2\pi sin(\theta) d \theta$$
so $$\frac{d\sigma}{d \Omega}=-\frac{\beta}{2\pi}+2\gamma cos(\theta)=|f(\theta)|^2$$

b) $$\sigma(\theta)=\alpha+\beta cos(\theta)+\gamma cos^2(theta)=\sigma=\frac{4 \pi}{k}\sum_{l=0}^{\infty}(2l+1)sin^2(\delta_{l})$$
Stuck here. Not sure if this is sufficient.

c) Also having issues with this one and deciding how to tackle it.

d) Waiting on doing this one until I can finish the previous two parts.

Has my setup so far been fine and are there any tips or suggestions on how I should tackle these problems?
Thanks in advance.
 
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I googled the topic, (my expertise here is limited), and I think you are needing the equation ## f(\theta)=\frac{1}{2 i k} \sum (2l+1) (e^{2 i \delta_l}-1)P_l(\cos{\theta}) ##. You can then set like powers of ## \cos{\theta} ## equal.
 
Last edited:
So, I talked with my professor, and apparently, there was a typo. It should be that $$\frac{d\sigma}{d\Omega}=\alpha+\beta cos(\theta)+\gamma cos^2(\theta)$$.
 
Charles Link said:
I googled the topic, (my expertise here is limited), and I think you are needing the equation ## f(\theta)=\frac{1}{2 i k} \sum (2l+1) (e^{2 i \delta_l}-1)P_l(\cos{\theta}) ##. You can then set like powers of ## \cos{\theta} ## equal.
I considered that, but I don't think that method would quite work since l is a summation to infinity.
 
Using this new info, I get for a) that ## f(\theta)=\frac{\sqrt{4\pi}}{k} \sum_{l=0}^{\infty} \sqrt{2l+1}Y_{l0} (e^{i\delta _l})sin^2{\delta_l} ##, where $$Y_{l0}$$ is a spherical harmonic.
For B, I can use $$\sigma=\int |f(\theta)|^2d\Omega=2\pi \int_{0}^{\pi}(\alpha+\beta cos(\theta)+\gamma cos^2(\theta))sin(\theta)d\Omega=4\pi\alpha+\frac{4\pi}{3}\gamma=\frac{4 \pi}{k}\sum_{l=0}^{\infty}(2l+1)sin^2(\delta_{l})$$.
However, this gets rid of $$\beta$$. Also, still not sure where to go for C).
 
I don't understand how to do this. I believe you need to be given the scattering amplitude f(θ) explicitly to enable the rest of the problem. Perhaps that is the intent??
 

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