If You Read Nothing Else…

Abstract

The technique of quasi-elastic neutron scattering (QENS) is a powerful experimental tool for extracting dynamical information at the nanoscale from both soft and hard condensed matter systems. However, while seemingly simple, the method is beset with sensitivities that, if ill considered, can hinder data interpretation and possibly publication. To start, however, this chapter simply asks “What can QENS do for me?” Key parameters and preliminary experimental considerations necessary to plan a successful neutron scattering experiment are presented, as are research case studies in the areas of chemistry, biology, physics and materials science which expand upon the information that might be extracted using the QENS method.