Scattering of polarized neutrons from light nuclei

Abstract

Introduction: In this chapter the present status of our understanding of the interaction of five and fewer nucleons will be briefly summarized. Some of the gaps in our knowledge will be pointed out, making clear the motivation for the experimental work described in the remainder of the thesis. Since most of the experimental effort by the author has been directed towards scattering of neutrons by protons, the nucleon - nucleon problem will be considered in greater detail. In speaking of this, the simplest problem in nuclear physics, M.L. Goldberger made the following remarks at the 1960 Midwest Conference on Theoretical Physics: "There are few problems in modern theoretical physics which have attracted more attention than that of trying to determine the fundamental interaction between two nucleons. It is also true that scarcely ever has the world of physics owed so little to so many .. . . . . . In general, in surveying the field, one is oppressed by the unbelievable confusion and conflict that exists. It is hard to believe that many of the authors are talking about the same problem, or in fact that they know what the problem is."