Interpretation of a cross section vs energy graph

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the interpretation of proton-proton cross section versus energy as presented in DeAngelis' "Introduction to Particle and Astroparticle Physics." It is established that the total cross section equals the elastic cross section when there is insufficient energy to create new particles, specifically at 1 GeV. Participants confirm that beyond 1 GeV, additional particles are indeed produced during collisions, indicating a transition in the interaction dynamics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of particle physics concepts, particularly cross sections.
  • Familiarity with energy levels in particle collisions, specifically 1 GeV.
  • Knowledge of elastic versus inelastic scattering in particle interactions.
  • Basic comprehension of the principles outlined in DeAngelis' "Introduction to Particle and Astroparticle Physics."
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of energy thresholds in particle collisions.
  • Study the differences between elastic and inelastic scattering in detail.
  • Explore advanced topics in particle creation during high-energy collisions.
  • Examine graphical representations of cross sections in particle physics literature.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students and researchers in particle physics, particularly those studying collision dynamics and energy thresholds in proton interactions.

rpthomps
Messages
182
Reaction score
19
Hello. I am reading DeAngelis - Introduction to particle and astroparticle physics and I have come across a plot showing proton proton cross section vs energy. I am trying to reconcile the statement in the book that says cross section total = cross section elastic whenever there is no available energy to create new particles. Does this happen at 1 GeV on the graph? Am I to assume new additional particles are being created after a 1GeV collision?

ppcs.png
 

Attachments

  • Screen Shot 2019-02-03 at 7.20.01 PM.png
    Screen Shot 2019-02-03 at 7.20.01 PM.png
    38.5 KB · Views: 520
  • ppcs.png
    ppcs.png
    31.2 KB · Views: 1,031
Physics news on Phys.org
Yes.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Meir Achuz and rpthomps

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
799
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
5K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K