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
Famous quotes containing the words cross and/or section:
“If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
—Bible: New Testament, Mark 8:34,5.
Jesus.
“Ah, Governor [Murphy, of New Jersey], don’t try to deceive me as to the sentiment of the dear people. I have been hearing from the West and the East, and the South seems to be the only section which approves of me at all, and that comes from merely a generous impulse, for even that section would deny me its votes.”
—William Howard Taft (1857–1930)