Compton scattering cross-sections for individual subshells for a few elements of biological interest in the energy region 5 keV–10 MeV

Abstract

Total Compton scattering cross-sections for the individual subshells of a few elements (H, C, N, O, Na, Mg, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Fe) that are the predominant constituents of biological materials are evaluated for photon energies from 5 keV to 10 MeV. These cross sections were calculated within the nonrelativistic impulse approximation, utilizing tabulated values of the Compton profile. These data are expected to be of use in detailed simulations of photon transport in matter. Cross sections for the whole atom, obtained by summing over the subshell data, are shown to be in agreement with previous tabulations.