Interaction of Radiation with Matter: Cross Sections and Processes

This lecture covers the interaction of radiation with matter, focusing on nuclear cross sections and reaction rates. It discusses various processes such as photoelectric effect, Compton scattering, and pair production, highlighting their significance in radiation detection. The lecture also explores the energy spectrum of photons, typical cross sections, and the relative contributions of main photon interactions. Additionally, it delves into neutron interactions, nuclear reactions, and the metrological standard using gold. The session concludes with a detailed examination of fission reactions, fissile and fertile isotopes, and the detection of charged and uncharged particles through different interaction mechanisms.