Statistical Theory of Compound–Nuclear Reactions

The Hauser‐Feshbach formula for the average compound–nucleus cross section formalizes Bohr's hypothesis of the independence of formation and decay of the compound nucleus. The statistical theory of compound–nuclear reactions aims at establishing the domain and limits of applicability of that formula and of Ericson's model for statistical cross section fluctuations using random–matrix theory as a starting point. I discuss the present status of that program, including the treatment of direct reactions.