Lunar neutron capture as a tracer for regolith dynamicsThe Apollo 17 Lunar Neutron Probe Experiment measured both the boron-10 neutron capture rate and the uranium-235 neutron-induced fission rate as a function of depth. Cd absorption gave a measure of the neutron energy spectrum. Comparisons of the results are made with theory, and good agreement is obtained for the magnitudes and depth dependences of the capture rates. While the low-energy neutron spectrum at depth agrees with theory, the spectrum near the peak of the flux profile is harder than predicted. In light of these results, several alternatives for interpreting the magnitude and uniformity of the neutron capture data from lunar surface soil samples are outlined. While none of the alternatives can be unquestionably defended or discarded, a surface layer mixing model is discussed in detail.
Document ID
19750055597
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Burnett, D. S. (California Institute of Technology Pasadena, Calif., United States)
Woolum, D. S. (California State University Fullerton; California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, Calif., United States)