Effect of Compton Scatterings by Air Molecules on the Sharpness of a Beam of Gamma Rays

Journal Article · Mon Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1962 · Journal of Applied Physics

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.1728953· OSTI ID:4770632

Robinson, Lawrence Baylor

The passage of a beam of gamma rays through air is examined. The effect of Compton scatterings on the sharpness of the gamma beam is discussed. Interest is focused on the component of the beam that suffers little energy loss. The problem is similar, in some respects, to multiple scattering of electrons with negligible energy loss. The mathematical expression for the collision process, however, is different. The cross section for Compton scatterings is introduced in order to obtain scattering probabilities. Some numerical results are obtained that can be applied to cobalt-80 gamma rays. The results are presented in graphical form.

• Research Organization: Univ. of California, Los Angeles
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• NSA Number: NSA-17-000732
• OSTI ID: 4770632
• Journal Information: Journal of Applied Physics, Journal Name: Journal of Applied Physics Journal Issue: 7 Vol. 33; ISSN JAPIAU; ISSN 0021-8979
• Publisher: American Institute of Physics (AIP)
• Country of Publication: Country unknown/Code not available
• Language: English

Related Subjects

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS
COMPTON EFFECT