This graph illustrates how the probability of neutrino interactions (cross-section) varies with their energy. Notably:

  • Low Energy (<1 GeV): Cross-sections are minimal, indicating neutrinos rarely interact.

  • Intermediate Energy (1–10 GeV): There’s a significant increase in interaction probability.

  • High Energy (>10 GeV): The cross-section continues to rise, though the rate of increase may vary depending on the interaction type.

 

⚛️ Average Energy of Neutrinos by Source

  • Solar neutrinos: ~0.1 to 10 MeV (average ~0.5 MeV)
  • Atmospheric neutrinos: ~100 MeV to several GeV (average ~1 GeV)
  • Supernova neutrinos: ~10 to 50 MeV
  • Reactor neutrinos: ~2 MeV
  • Cosmic neutrino background: ~10⁻⁴ eV

🚶‍♂️ What Happens if a Neutrino Interacts with a Human?

  • ~100 trillion solar neutrinos pass through your body every second.
  • Almost none interact — they pass through atoms unimpeded.
  • If interaction occurs (via weak force), it might:
    • Scatter off a nucleon or electron
    • Produce a lepton (electron or muon)
    • Cause nuclear recoil or Cherenkov radiation
  • These effects are harmless and extremely rare.

📊 Neutrino Interaction Cross-Section vs. Energy

Neutrino Interaction Cross-Section vs Energy

Source: Wikimedia Commons – Log-log plot of neutrino interaction cross-section vs. energy