Neutron scattering as a function of angle

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of deriving an explicit formula for the neutron scattering cross section in an (n,p) elastic collision with H-1 as the target. The approach involves transforming to the center of mass coordinates and assuming isotropic scattering. However, there is no explicit formula and numerous papers have been written on this topic. One recent paper with explicit formulas and references is provided as a starting point for further research. While the energy of the neutron is implicit in the transformation, other nuclear reactions may also be involved.
  • #1
earlgrey
2
0
Hi thanks for reading. Is it possible to derive an explicit formula for the neutron scattering cross section as a function of energy and angle of incident and scattered neutrons respectively? This is for a (n,p) elastic collision with H-1 as the target.
 
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  • #2
I believe (I worked with this many years ago) that the derivation can be done by transforming to the center of mass coordinates and assuming isotropic scattering there.

This assumes the scattering is elastic. Collisions could end up as H2 nuclei.
 
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  • #3
Thanks for replying! I have tried this using conservation of energy. However, I cannot find a relation for cross section as a function of energy and angle; only scattering energy as a function of angle. Do you have any hints? I have been looking at <http://mightylib.mit.edu/Course%20Materials/22.101/Fall%202004/Notes/Part3.pdf> for answers but I'm just not sure if it is the correct way to go about it.
Thanks
 
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  • #4
There is no explicit formula. Hundreds of papers have been written on n-p scattering.
 
  • #6
For elastic scattering, the energy of the neutron is implicit in transforming to the center of mass. However nuclear reactions other than elastic scattering will be involved. The reference of Achuz is a good place to start.
 

1. What is neutron scattering as a function of angle?

Neutron scattering as a function of angle is a technique used in materials science and physics to study the structure and properties of materials. It involves directing a beam of neutrons at a sample and analyzing the scattered neutrons at different angles to gather information about the sample's atomic and molecular structure.

2. How does neutron scattering as a function of angle work?

Neutrons are particles with no electric charge, making them ideal for studying materials without interfering with their properties. When a beam of neutrons is directed at a sample, some of the neutrons will interact with the atoms in the sample and scatter in different directions. By measuring the intensity and direction of the scattered neutrons, scientists can analyze the sample's structure and properties.

3. What types of information can be obtained from neutron scattering as a function of angle?

Neutron scattering as a function of angle can provide information about the size, shape, and arrangement of atoms and molecules in a material. It can also reveal details about the magnetic and electronic properties of materials, such as the spin and charge distributions of atoms.

4. What are the applications of neutron scattering as a function of angle?

Neutron scattering as a function of angle has a wide range of applications in various fields, including materials science, physics, chemistry, and biology. It is used to study the structure and properties of materials such as metals, ceramics, polymers, and biological samples. This technique can also be applied to analyze the structural changes in materials under different conditions, such as high temperatures or pressures.

5. What are the advantages of using neutron scattering as a function of angle?

One of the main advantages of neutron scattering as a function of angle is its ability to provide detailed information about the atomic and molecular structure of materials non-destructively. It is also a highly sensitive technique, capable of detecting small changes in a material's structure. Additionally, neutrons have a high penetrating power, allowing for the analysis of thick or opaque samples.

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