Compton scattering by the nucleon

Abstract

The status of Compton scattering by the nucleon at energies of the first and second resonance is summarized. In addition to a general test of dispersion theories and a precise determination of polarizabilities, the validities of four fundamental sum rules are explored. Recommended averages of experimental values for the electromagnetic polarizabilities and spin-polarizabilities of the nucleon are determined: αp = 12.0 ± 0.6, βp = 1.9 ∓ 0.6, αn = 12.5 ± 1.7, βn = 2.7 ∓ 1.8 (unit 10(n) π = 58.6 ± 4.0 (unit 10 −4 fm 4 ).