Data interpretation, objective evaluation procedures and mathematical techniques for the evaluation of energy dependent ratio, shape and cross section data

Abstract

The evaluation of several energy-dependent neutron cross sections which are of importance for practical applications is considered. The evaluation process is defined as the procedure which is used to derive the best knowledge of these cross sections based on the available direct experimental data information, and, using theoretical models, on the auxiliary data base. The experimental data base represents a multiple overdetermination of the unknown cross sections with various correlations between the measured values. Obtaining the least-squares estimator is considered as the standard mathematical procedure to derive a consistent set of evaluated cross section values. Various approximations made in order to avoid the monstrous system of normal equations are considered and the feasibility of the exact solution is demonstrated. The variance-covariance of the result, its reliability and the improvements obtained in iterative steps are discussed. Finally, the inclusion of auxiliary, supplementary information is considered. 45 references.