Neutron scattering and models: Chromium

Differential neutron elastic-scattering cross sections of elemental chromium are measured from 4.5 {approx} 10 MeV in steps of {approx} 0.5 MeV and at {ge} 40 scattering angles distributed between {approx} 17{degree}--160{degree}. Concurrently differential cross sections for the inelastic neutron excitation of the yrast 2{sup +} (1.434 MeV) level in {sup d52}Cr are determined. In addition, broad inelastically-scattered neutron groups are observed corresponding to composite excitation of levels up to {approx} 5.5 MeV in the various chromium isotopes. These experimental results are combined with low-energy values previously reported from this laboratory, with recent {approx} 8 {yields} 15 MeV data measured at the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt and with a 21.6 MeV result from the literature to form an extensive neutron-scattering data base which is interpreted in the context of spherical-optical and coupled-channels (rotational and vibrational) models. These models reasonably describe the observables but indicate rather large energy-dependent parameter trends at low energies similar to those previously reported near the peak of the S{sub o} strength function in studies at this laboratory. The physical implications of the measurements and models are discussed including deformation, coupling, dispersive and asymmetry effects