Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around finding neutron capture and fission cross sections, particularly in the context of Thorium utilization in nuclear reactors. Participants seek resources and clarification on interpreting data from databases related to neutron interactions across various energy ranges.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
- Mathematical reasoning
Main Points Raised
- One participant is looking for neutron capture and fission cross section figures for Thorium over a wide energy range, not limited to thermal energies.
- Another participant suggests checking the ENDF VII database for relevant cross section data, specifically mentioning a range from 1 eV to 4 keV for Th-232.
- A different participant provides a link to a database where plots of capture and fission cross sections can be found, indicating it may contain useful information.
- One participant expresses difficulties in interpreting data from the NNDC database, particularly regarding discrepancies in cross section values for 233U at 0.05 eV, noting differences between calculated and tabulated values.
- Another participant responds to the interpretation difficulties, suggesting that the values may be integrated over a thermal spectrum and clarifying the relationship between absorption and fission cross sections.
- There is a mention of a potential issue with the assumption that the cross section is strictly 1/nu, which may affect the results derived from the Maxwell integral.
- A separate post introduces a request for help with finding new problems in a textbook, indicating a shift in focus from the main topic of cross sections.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the interpretation of cross section data, with some suggesting possible explanations for discrepancies while others remain uncertain about the correct values. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the interpretation of the data or the errors involved.
Contextual Notes
Participants highlight limitations in the data interpretation, including the dependence on definitions and the potential for integrated values over a thermal spectrum to differ from single energy values. Specific assumptions regarding the nature of cross sections are also questioned.
Who May Find This Useful
This discussion may be useful for researchers and students interested in nuclear physics, particularly those focusing on neutron interactions, cross section data, and the application of Thorium in nuclear reactors.
