A method for computing hadron-nucleus cross sections in fully active sampling calorimetric targets

TL;DR

This paper introduces a robust method for calculating hadron-nucleus cross sections using fully active sampling calorimeters, accommodating complex target geometries with multiple slabs of varying thicknesses.

Contribution

A novel approach for computing hadron-nucleus cross sections in fully active calorimeters that handles complex, multi-slab targets with different thicknesses.

Findings

Method is robust for targets with multiple slabs.

Applicable to various fully active calorimeter configurations.

Improves accuracy of cross section measurements in fixed-target experiments.

Abstract

Interaction cross section measurements in fixed-target scattering experiments are typically performed by measuring the attenuation of a beam of particles that is incident upon a target slab of material. A fully active sampling calorimeter, such as the time projection chamber, is a more voluminous target that can be treated as a series of smaller target slabs. We present a method of computing hadron-nucleus interaction cross sections for data taken with fully active sampling calorimeters that is robust even if the target is comprised of numerous slabs of various thicknesses.