We present the most accurate and complete data set for the analyzing power Ay(theta) in neutron-proton scattering. The experimental data were corrected for the effects of multiple scattering, both in the center detector and in the neutron detectors. The final data at En = 12.0 MeV deviate considerably from the predictions of nucleon-nucleon phase-shift analyses and potential models. The impact of the new data on the value of the charged pion-nucleon coupling constant is discussed in a model study.
The measured analysing power at 12 MeV. Errors contain statistics and systematics added in quadrature.
Measurements have been made of ΔσT for polarized neutrons incident on a polarized-proton target from 3.65 to 11.60 MeV. In the energy range near 10 MeV, ΔσT is very sensitive to the nucleon-nucleon tensor interaction. Comparison of the data to potential-model predictions indicate that the tensor interaction is weak, resulting in values of the 3S1−3D1 mixing parameter ε1 which are smaller than predicted by any nucleon-nucleon potential model. A smaller tensor force will bring the predictions of local potential models for the triton binding energy into closer agreement with the experimental value.
The measured cross section is the total cross section with the spins antiparallel minus the total cross section with the spins parallel.
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