In nuclear and particle physics, the concept of a neutron cross section is used to express the likelihood of interaction between an incident neutron and a target nucleus. In conjunction with the neutron flux, it enables the calculation of the reaction rate, for example to derive the thermal power of a nuclear power plant. The standard unit for measuring the cross section is the barn, which is equal to 10−28 m2 or 10−24 cm2.
Read more about Neutron Cross Section: Parameters of Interest, Link To Reaction Rate and Interpretation, Continuous Versus Average Cross Section, Microscopic Versus Macroscopic Cross Section, Mean Free Path, Within Stars, Typical Cross Sections
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