Total Cross Sections

TL;DR

This paper discusses the importance and methodology of measuring total cross sections in hadron-hadron collisions, especially during the initial phases of new hadron accelerator operations, emphasizing their role in understanding particle interactions.

Contribution

It highlights the significance of total cross section measurements as a primary step in exploring new energy regimes at hadron accelerators and reviews their historical and ongoing importance.

Findings

Total cross sections are fundamental in understanding hadron interactions.

Measurements are typically performed at the start of new accelerator runs.

Improved accuracy and finer energy spacing enhance understanding.

Abstract

The measurements of the hadron-hadron total cross sections are the first measurements performed when a new hadron accelerator opens up a new energy region; the measurements were made as function of the incoming beam momentum or c.m. energy and have often been repeated with improved accuracy and finer energy spacing.