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tschoonj

xraylib MCP Server

by tschoonj

CS_Photo_Total_CP

Calculate the total photoionization cross section of a chemical compound at a given photon energy using the Kissel method. Returns result in cm2/g.

Instructions

Calculate the total photoionization cross section of a compound using Kissel (cm2/g).

Args: compound: Chemical formula, e.g. "SiO2", "H2O" E: Photon energy in keV

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
EYes
compoundYes

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior2/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations are provided, so the description must carry the full burden. It fails to disclose behavioral traits such as valid energy ranges, compound format constraints, error handling, or whether the Kissel method imposes limitations. The minimal description does not adequately inform the agent about tool behavior.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is very concise with one sentence and two bullet points for arguments. It is front-loaded with the key action. However, the structure is minimal and could benefit from clearer separation between the purpose and argument descriptions.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness2/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Despite having an output schema (unseen), the tool description is incomplete for its context. It does not clarify what 'CP' denotes, which is crucial given siblings like CS_Photo_Total. The Kissel method is not explained, nor are the output format or units reiterated. More context is needed for proper usage.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The description adds meaning beyond the empty schema by providing examples for each parameter: compound ('SiO2', 'H2O') and E (photon energy in keV). This partially compensates for 0% schema coverage. However, it lacks details like acceptable value ranges or compound syntax rules, leaving gaps.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states it calculates total photoionization cross section in cm2/g using the Kissel method. The verb 'Calculate' and resource 'total photoionization cross section' are specific. However, the meaning of 'CP' is not explained, and there are many similar sibling tools (e.g., CS_Photo_Total, CS_Photo_CP, CS_Photo_Kissel_CP) without differentiation, slightly reducing clarity.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines2/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as CS_Photo_Total, CS_Photo_Kissel, or CS_Photo_CP. There is no mention of prerequisites, valid ranges, or method selection criteria, leaving the agent without context to choose appropriately.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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