Photoproduction of pions from complex nuclei has become an investigative tool for (1) the detailed form of the elementary photopion amplitude, (2) the pion-nucleus optical potential, (3) nuclear structure, and (4) off-shell and medium effects on the elementary amplitude in nuclear processes. In this book, all these aspects are considered in detail. With improved experimental accuracy and beam tech- nology the study of nuclear pion photoproduction will break new ground and become an even more powerful investigative tool. This monograph is intended as an introductory guide as well as a reference manual for grad- uate students and researchers working in this important area of physics.

Inhalt

General survey of photopion nuclear physics.- Elementary photopion production amplitude.- Nuclear transition amplitude.- Pion-nucleus optical potential and distorted pion waves.- Nuclear wave fuctions and nuclear transition densities.- Charged pion photoproduction.- Neutral pion photoproduction.- Special topics and future prospects.