Question:What is the difference between flux and current?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the differences between flux and current in the context of neutrons, specifically regarding their definitions, units, and calculations using MCNP (Monte Carlo N-Particle Transport Code). Participants explore both theoretical and practical aspects of these concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants define flux as a flow per area per time, with units of neutrons/(cm²·sec), while current is described as a flow per time, with units of neutrons/second.
  • It is noted that current can be considered as the integral of flux over a surface.
  • Some participants emphasize that flux is a scalar quantity, whereas current is a vector quantity that includes direction.
  • There is a question regarding whether the discussion pertains to neutron current, particle current, or current density.
  • One participant seeks to calculate the ratio between total neutron current and total neutron flux, asking for methods to obtain this value in MCNP.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying definitions and interpretations of flux and current, indicating that multiple competing views remain. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the calculations or the specific context of the terms used.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the definitions of current and flux may not be explicitly stated, and the discussion lacks clarity on the specific scenarios or conditions under which these calculations are to be performed.

LeeGru
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TL;DR
calculate the flux and current of neutron by MCNP
Guys,I need to calculate the flux and current of neutron by MCNP.So what's the difference between them ,and How to calculate them?
Any ideas?
 
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Flux is a flow/area/time, so in the case of neutrons it would have units like neutrons/(cm^2 - sec). Current is a flow/time, so it would have units like neutrons/second. So the current will be the flux integrated over some surface. How you calculate theme depends on the problem given.
 
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LeeGru said:
Guys, I need to calculate the flux and current of neutron by MCNP.So what's the difference between them ,and How to calculate them?
Flux is a scalar value, while current is a vector, which has a direction.

Is the question about neutron current (or particle current) or current density?
 
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Astronuc said:
Flux is a scalar value, while current is a vector, which has a direction.

Is the question about neutron current (or particle current) or current density?
I need to calculate the ratio between the total neutron current and the total neutron flux.How could obtain this value?
 
phyzguy said:
Flux is a flow/area/time, so in the case of neutrons it would have units like neutrons/(cm^2 - sec). Current is a flow/time, so it would have units like neutrons/second. So the current will be the flux integrated over some surface. How you calculate theme depends on the problem given.
Thank you very much.I need to calculate the ratio between the total neutron current and the total neutron flux.How could I obtain this value in MCNP
 

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