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tschoonj

xraylib MCP Server

by tschoonj

CSb_Photo_CP

Compute photoionization cross section in barn/atom for any compound. Provide chemical formula and photon energy in keV.

Instructions

Calculate the photoionization cross section of a compound (barn/atom).

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?

With no annotations, the description should disclose behavioral traits. It merely states the calculation and input format, omitting details like return format, error handling, performance, or limitations. The output schema might compensate, but the description adds minimal behavioral context.

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 concise with two lines and an argument list. It is front-loaded with the core action. However, it could be more structured (e.g., separate description and argument sections) but is efficient for the information provided.

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?

Given the complexity (2 params, no annotations, output schema exists), the description is too minimal. It does not explain the 'b' in the name, differences from similar tools like CS_Photo_CP, or the intended use case. An agent may misapply it without more context.

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

Parameters4/5

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

Schema description coverage is 0%, so the description must add meaning. It provides clear explanations for both parameters: compound as chemical formula with examples, E as photon energy in keV. This is sufficient for an agent to understand inputs.

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?

Clearly states the tool calculates photoionization cross section for a compound, with units (barn/atom). However, it does not differentiate from sibling tools like CS_Photo_CP or CSb_Photo_Total, which may have similar purpose but different scope.

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?

No guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. The description only lists required parameters but does not specify context, prerequisites, or exclusions. An agent cannot decide between CSb_Photo_CP and similar tools based on this description.

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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