Statistics for Nuclear and Particle Physicists [Paperback]

This practical approach to statistical problems arising regularly in analyzing data from nuclear and high energy physics experiments is geared toward non-statisticians.This practical approach to statistical problems arising regularly in analyzing data from nuclear and high energy physics experiments is geared toward non-statisticians.Written by a non-statistician for non-statisticians, the book emphasizes the practical approach to those problems in statistics that arise regularly in data analysis situations in nuclear and high energy physics experiments. Rather than concentrate on proofs and theorems, the author provides an abundance of simple examples that illustrate the general ideas presented. This allows the reader to obtain maximum information in the simplest manner. Possible difficulties with the various techniques, and pitfalls to be avoided, are also discussed. This commonsense approach to statistical formalism enables nuclear physicists to better understand how to do justice to their analysis and interpretation of data.Preface; 1. Experimental errors; 2. Probability and statistics; 3. Distributions; 4. Parameter fitting and hypothesis testing; 5. Detailed examples of fitting procedures; 6. Monte Carlo calculations; Appendices; Bibliography; Index. ...an ideal book for the person who knows about statistical techniques but wants to learn how and why to apply them. Nature This is a well written book with a really immense number of realistic physical examples... Physics in Canada