scattering cross-section

The scattering cross-section is a measure of how likely a particle or wave is to be deflected or scattered by an object or target. Imagine shining a light on an object—some of the light bounces off, and the cross-section quantifies how much "area" the object appears to present to the incoming particles or waves for scattering. It helps scientists understand the strength of interactions in fields like physics and chemistry, indicating how effectively particles or radiation bounce off or interact with targets. Essentially, it’s a way to describe the probability and extent of scattering events.