Probability Distributions for the Heights of Maxima and Minima in Fluctuating Nuclear Cross Sections

Abstract

Probability distributions for the heights of maxima and minima in fluctuating nuclear cross sections have been obtained from synthetic excitation functions. It is shown how these distributions can be used to determine the extent to which experimentally observed large excursions from the average cross sections may deviate from the predictions of simple fluctuation theory. A discussion is given of problems associated with the detection of resonance anomalies in experimental excitation functions.