Optimization conditions in pulsed source TOF neutron spectrometry

Focusing conditions are deduced by canceling the significant contributions to the scan-variable variances. The focusing conditions refer to the optimum detector, sample and source moderator orientation and to optimal choice of the crystal radius of curvature, in the case of a crystal monochromator. Here the moderator is considered to be separate from the source itself. The focusing conditions deduced for an idealized configuration can serve as a zeroth-order approximation in a numerical optimization process.