Investigations of Direct Methods for the Determination of Fine Structure Associated with the Velocity Dependence of Total Elastic Scattering Cross-sections for Neutral Particles in the Thermal Energy Range

Abstract

The project at hand is an investigation of methods which might be used for the determination of a plot of 1n Q, vs [gamma]r, as shown in Figure 1, where Q is the crosssection, and [gamma]r is the relative velocity of interacting particles. Previously; plots of this nature have been obtained only through much diligent and laborious work. At a specifically selected relative velocity, an individual cross-section was measured, via a machine shown schematically in Figure 2. By making measurements at many relative velocities, the desired graph could be constructed. It is proposed that by making certain modifications (shown in Figure 3) of the instrument, the plot can be displayed on an oscilloscope screen. My work has been concerned with determining the theoretical, practical, and financial feasibility of this proposal. I have been able to show the feasibility, at least on the first two counts. [From Introduction]