Scattering Vs Absorption Crossection

In summary, the difference between Scattering Crossection and Absorption Crossection in nuclear reaction crossection is that they measure the probability for different types of events to occur. The larger the crossection, the more likely the event is to occur. In the given numerical problem, the intensity of a thermal neutron beam passing through a 2 cm thick slab of arsenic with a density of 5.73 gm per cm cube can be calculated using the absorption and scattering cross sections, as well as the Avogadro Constant and conversion factor for barns.
  • #1
therimalaya
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What is the difference between Scattering Crossection and Absorption Crossection in nuclear reaction crossection?

Please help me for one numerical problem;

"Arsenic [tex]As^{33}_{75}[/tex] has an absorption cross section for thermal neutrons of 4.1 b and a scattering cross section of 6 b, its density is 5.73 gm per cm cube. A beam of thermal neutrons is passed through a slab of arsenic 2 cm thick. By what fraction is the intensity of the beam reduced? [Avogadro Constant=6.023 x 10[tex]^{23}[/tex] mole[tex]^{-1}[/tex] and 1 b=10[tex]^{-24}[/tex] sq cm.]"
 

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  • #2
crossection is the probability for an even to occur, the event can be inelastic scattering, elastic scattering, absorption, etc.

So it is just a measurment of the probability for an event, the larger crossection - the more likley. The units of crossection is area.

Now this a HW-related problem, and I encourage you to google/ search your book, for the experimental definition of crossection, and then give it a try yourself, then we will help you.
 

FAQ: Scattering Vs Absorption Crossection

What is the difference between scattering and absorption cross section?

Scattering cross section is a measure of the likelihood of a particle or wave being scattered by a target object. Absorption cross section, on the other hand, is a measure of the likelihood of a particle or wave being absorbed by an object. In simpler terms, scattering cross section refers to the amount of energy that is redirected by a target object, while absorption cross section refers to the amount of energy that is absorbed by the object.

How is scattering cross section calculated?

Scattering cross section is calculated by dividing the number of scattered particles by the incident flux of particles and the area of the target object. It is typically measured in units of square meters (m^2).

What factors affect the magnitude of absorption cross section?

The magnitude of absorption cross section is affected by several factors including the size and shape of the target object, the frequency or wavelength of the incident particles or waves, and the composition of the target object. In general, larger objects and higher frequencies or energies result in larger absorption cross sections.

How do scattering and absorption cross section relate to each other?

Scattering and absorption cross sections are related to each other through the principle of conservation of energy. If particles or waves are not scattered, they must be absorbed by the target object. Therefore, the sum of the scattering and absorption cross sections is equal to the total cross section of the object.

What is the significance of scattering and absorption cross section in scientific research?

Scattering and absorption cross sections are important parameters used in various fields of science, such as physics, chemistry, and materials science. They provide valuable information about the interaction between particles or waves and target objects, and can be used to study the properties and structure of the target objects. In particular, they are essential in the fields of optics, meteorology, and atmospheric science for understanding the behavior of light and other electromagnetic waves in the atmosphere.

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