elastic scattering theory

Elastic scattering theory describes how particles, such as atoms or subatomic particles, collide and deflect off each other without changing their internal energy or structure. During these interactions, kinetic energy is conserved, and the particles may change direction but not their speed or internal states. This process helps scientists understand the forces and potentials governing particle interactions, such as how neutrons bounce off nuclei or how light scatters in materials. It’s a fundamental concept used in physics and chemistry to analyze the behavior of particles during collisions, revealing insights into the structures and forces at play.