Neutron Scattering on ²³⁸U and ²³²Th

Abstract

Consistent analysis of neutron scattering data of ²³⁸U and ²³²Th with Hauser-Feshbach-Moldauer theory and coupled channel model is carried out. Collective bands structures are reproduced within soft deformable rotator model. The direct excitation of ground state and vibrational band levels is calculated within rigid rotator and soft (deformable) rotator models, respectively. Structures evident in measured neutron emission spectra are correlated with excitation of vibrational levels of K^π = 0⁻ and K^π = 0⁺, 2⁺ bands. Prompt fission neutron spectra data are described. Contributions of neutrons, emitted in (n, nf) reactions are shown to be strongly dependent on the emissive fission contribution to the observed fission cross section.

Keywords:

• coupled channels
• thorium 232
• uranium 238
• inelastic scattering cross section
• neutron emission spectra
• prompt fission neutron spectra