Model for Nuclear Reactions with Neutrons

Abstract

A simple model is proposed for the description of the scattering and the compound nucleus formation by nucleons impinging upon complex nuclei. It is shown that, by making appropriate averages over resonances, an average problem can be defined which is referred to as the "gross-structure" problem. Solution of this problem permits the calculation of the average total cross section, the cross section for the formation of the compound nucleus, and the part of the elastic-scattering cross section which does not involve formation of the compound nucleus. Unambiguous definitions are given for the latter cross sections.