Scattering Amplitude

A scattering amplitude is a mathematical quantity used in physics to describe how particles interact and deflect when they collide. Imagine two billiard balls hitting each other: the scattering amplitude predicts the likelihood of various outcomes, such as angles and energies of the resulting particles. It encapsulates the complex quantum dynamics of the interaction, providing a way to calculate the probability of different scattering processes. In essence, it helps scientists understand and quantify the forces and behaviors governing particle collisions at the microscopic level.