Fast-neutron inelastic scattering cross sections for the principal even-even actinide nuclei

A survey of excitation function and angular distribution data for fast-neutron inelastic scattering on the principal even-even actinide nuclei considers first the 232Th(n,n') reaction from threshold to Esub(n)=3.4 MeV featuring (total angle-integrated and differential) level cross sections for rotational or (quadrupole/octupole) vibrational states up to an excitation energy E*=1218 keV. Experimental data from (n,n'γ) and (n,n') measurements covering 28 such levels are contrasted with theoretical calculations, from a 'standard' compound nucleus plus direct interaction treatment and from a statistical S-matrix approach. (author)