Solution Of An Initial Value Problem In Linear Transport Theory

The solution of an initial-value problem in linear transport theory is obtained by using the normal-mode expansion technique of Case. The problem is that of monoenergetic neutrons migrating in a thin slab surrounded by infinitely thick reflectors and the scattering is taken to be isotropic. The results obtained indicate that the reflector may give rise to a branch-cut integral term typical of a semi-infinite medium whereas the central slab may contribute a summation over discrete residue terms. Exact expressions are obtained for these discrete time eigenvalues, and numerical results showing the behavior of real time eigenvalues as a function of the material properties of the slab and reflector are presented. These eigenvalues are finite in number and may disappear into the branch cut or continuum as the material properties are varied; such disappearing eigenvalues correspond to exponentially time-decaying modes. The two largest eigenvalues can be compared with critical dimensions of slabs and spheres, and the numerical values are shown to agree with the critically results of others. In the limit of purely absorbing reflectors or a bare slab, the present solution has the same properties as have been previously reported by others who used the approach of Lehner and Wing.