The Z-dependence of the elastic scattering of γ-rays

The differential cross sections for elastic scattering of 662 keV and 279 keV γ-rays from Pb, Ta, Nd, Sn, Mo, and Zn have been measured at angles ranging from 45° to 135°. The results are compared with theoretical predictions taking into account Rayleigh scattering and nuclear Thomson scattering. The theoretical Rayleigh amplitudes are based on second order perturbation theory according to Brown et al. and on form factors calculated from relativistic HFS wave functions. A semi-empirical method of correcting the form factors is developed, valid for energies between 150 keV and 750 keV and charge numbers up to Z = 82. The average difference between calculated and measured differential cross sections was found to be 6%.