Elastic neutron scattering from 40Ca for neutron energies to 2 MeV

Total and differential elastic neutron scattering cross sections for Ca are analysed for resonance parameters below 2 MeV. A detailed reproduction of the total neutron cross section up to 1.2 MeV is given with multilevel R-matrix formulas. Using the theoretical expressions of Blatt and Biedenharn, shape features of the scattering data versus angle have been explored for spin and parity assignments. Strength functions and average level spacings are determined for s-, p- and d-waves. Reduced widths and the R∞ coefficients have been obtained from the analysis. Using these quantities and the sum rules, the intermediate coupling picture of Lane, Thomas and Wigner is applied to the study of s-, p- and d-wave strength in the energy region up to 2 MeV above the neutron threshold energy.