Neutron beam hitting Uranium 238 foil

In summary, a high energy beam of neutrons with an intensity of 10^6 s^-1 passes through a thin foil target made of 238 U with a density of 10^-1 kg m^-2. The elastic and inelastic cross-sections are 1.4 and 2.0 b, respectively. Using the equations for flux and reaction rate, the attenuation of the beam and the rate of elastic reactions can be calculated. Additionally, the flux of elastically scattered neutrons can be determined at a distance of 5 m from the target, averaged over all scattering angles. Integration can be used to solve for the reduction in beam intensity on crossing the segment.
  • #1
Steven Brown
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Homework Statement


A high energy beam of neutrons of intensity 10^6 s^-1 transverses a target of 238 U of thin foil whose density per unit area is 10^-1 kg m^-2. If the elastic and in elastic cross-sections are 1.4 and 2.0 b, respectively, calculate(a) the attenuation of the beam(b) the rate of elastic reactions and(C) the flux of elastically scattered neutrons 5 m from the target, averaged over all scattering angles.

Homework Equations



flux J=NbVi
Wr=jNsigma, r
The reduction in beam intensity on crossing the segment is is equal to the reaction rate dW within the segment
AdJ(x)=-dW
dW=j(x)sigma nt Adx

The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
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  • #2
tried integrating over the input Ji exp (-x/ln)sigma nt Adx and I am totally stumped
 

What is a neutron beam?

A neutron beam is a stream of neutrons that are directed and focused in a specific direction using various technologies, such as particle accelerators or nuclear reactors.

What happens when a neutron beam hits Uranium 238 foil?

When a neutron beam hits Uranium 238 foil, the neutrons will be absorbed by the uranium atoms. This can cause the uranium atoms to become unstable and potentially undergo nuclear fission, releasing energy and more neutrons.

What is Uranium 238?

Uranium 238 is a naturally occurring radioactive element with 92 protons and 146 neutrons in its nucleus. It is the most common isotope of uranium and makes up about 99% of natural uranium.

Is it safe to be near a neutron beam hitting Uranium 238 foil?

In general, being near a neutron beam hitting Uranium 238 foil is not considered safe as it can release harmful radiation. However, safety precautions are usually in place to protect individuals from exposure to the radiation.

What are the potential uses of a neutron beam hitting Uranium 238 foil in scientific research?

A neutron beam hitting Uranium 238 foil can be used in various scientific research fields, such as nuclear physics, materials science, and medical research. It can provide valuable information on the structure and behavior of atomic nuclei and can be used to produce radioisotopes for medical treatments.

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