Measurement of neutron total cross sections up to 560 MeV

We have completed a new set of total cross section measurements of 31 elements and isotopes spanning the periodic table from A = 1 to 238. We employed the same technique as in Finley et al. [Phys. Rev. C 47, 237 (1993)] with refinements intended to allow measurements on separated isotopes and improved systematic error control. The goal of the new measurement was 1% statistical accuracy in 1% energy bins with systematic errors less than 1%. This was achieved for all but the thinnest samples. Stringent checks of systematic errors in this measurement resulted in a reassignment of systematic uncertainties to the neutron total cross sections reported in Finley et al. Microscopic optical model calculations were carried out to interpret the results of the experiment. Two specific types of optical models were employed. The Jeukenne-Lejeune-Mahaux model was used in the range of 5-160 MeV, and a model based on the empirical effective interaction of Kelly was used from 135 to 650 MeV. These models are shown to be useful for predicting both neutron total cross sections and proton reaction cross sections. They are particularly important for light nuclei, for which standard global phenomenological parametrizations of the optical potential are insufficiently accurate.