Possible observation of short wavelength charge fluctuation scattering in a molten alkali halide

We describe an attempt to observe inelastic neutron scattering from short wave-length charge fluctuation modes in molten potassium bromide. Measurements were made using a triple axis crystal spectrometer with fixed scattered neutron energy (19 THz, or 78·6 meV) and scans were recorded at scattering angles between 2o and 7o. An analysis of the results indicates weak shoulders on each side of the elastic peak, corresponding to energy transfers about 4 THz. A calculation of the expected scattering, based on the computer simulation results of Hansen and McDonald (1975) is described, and the neutron scattering results are discussed in the light of this calculation. (author)