Relative U235(n,γ) and (n,f) cross sections from U235(d,pγ) and (d,pf)

The internal surrogate ratio method allows for the determination of an unknown cross section, such as (n,γ), relative to a better-known cross section, such as (n,f), by measuring the relative exit-channel probabilities of a surrogate reaction that proceeds through the same compound nucleus. The validity of the internal surrogate ratio method is tested by comparing the relative γ and fission exit-channel probabilities of a U236* compound nucleus, formed in the U235(d,p) reaction, to the known U235(n,γ) and (n,f) cross sections. A model-independent method for measuring the γ-channel yield is presented and used. © 2009 The American Physical Society.