What is Partial Gamma-production?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of partial gamma-ray production cross-sections in the context of nuclear reactions, specifically under proton bombardment of Copper. Participants seek to clarify the meaning and implications of these cross-sections in relation to nuclear reactions and gamma-ray emissions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks clarification on the meaning of partial gamma-ray production cross-sections, noting that cross-sections generally describe the probability of nuclear reactions.
  • Another participant suggests that partial gamma-ray production cross-sections refer to processes involving the reaction "n+nucleus -> nucleus + n + gamma + whatever."
  • A participant questions whether the cross-section describes the probability of producing a gamma photon with a specific energy or any prompt gamma in general, providing an example involving the transition from 65Cu to 65Zn.
  • In response, another participant asserts that if the energy is specified, the cross-section should correspond to photons with that defined energy, indicating that the process yields photons with well-defined energy.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty regarding the precise interpretation of partial gamma-ray production cross-sections, with some proposing that it relates to specific energy emissions while others suggest a broader interpretation. No consensus is reached on the exact definition or implications.

SwordSmith
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Hi

I am currently looking at some literature for the production of different radioactive nuclei under the bombardment of protons on Copper. I found something called partial γ-ray production cross-sections and I am wondering what this means. I know that cross-sections generally describe the probability of a nuclear reaction occurring but I don't fully understand this concept. Can you help me?

Regards
 
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Looking at that publication, I think it is a description for all "n+nucleus -> nucleus + n + gamma + whatever" processes.
 
So it describes the probability that a nuclear reaction will produce a prompt gamma with a certain energy or is it any prompt gamma in general?

Example:
65Cu(p,n+γ(E=1200keV))65Zn - the partial γ-ray production cross-sections will thus describe the probability for this γ with this particular energy being emitted? Or does it describe the total gamma radiation from this transition?
 
If the energy is given like that, the number should correspond to photons with that energy.
Your process gives photons with well-defined energy.
 

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