Impact parameter

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-005720",
  "term": "Impact parameter",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "The perpendicular distance between the trajectory of an incoming particle and the center of a target particle, assuming no interaction occurs. It is a key concept in scattering theory, determining the nature and outcome of collisions between particles. A smaller impact parameter generally leads to a stronger interaction or a larger scattering angle.",
  "subject": "Physical and Biophysical Chemistry",
  "see_also": [
    "collision theory"
  ],
  "references": [
    "Green Book, 2nd ed., p. 56 (https://goldbook.iupac.org/files/pdf/green_book_2ed.pdf)",
    "PAC, 1991, 63, 1541. 'Recommendations for nomenclature and symbolism for mass spectroscopy (including an appendix of terms used in vacuum technology). (Recommendations 1991)' on page 1555 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199163101541)",
    "PAC, 1996, 68, 149. 'A glossary of terms used in chemical kinetics, including reaction dynamics (IUPAC Recommendations 1996)' on page 168 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199668010149)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/impact-parameter/"
}