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xraylib MCP Server

by tschoonj

CSb_Total_Kissel

Calculate total cross section (barn/atom) for photoionization of an element using the Kissel model. Input atomic number Z and photon energy in keV.

Instructions

Calculate the total cross section using Kissel photoionization (barn/atom).

Args: Z: Atomic number (1-120) E: Photon energy in keV

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
EYes
ZYes

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, and the description only states the function. It does not disclose behavioral traits like read-only nature, required permissions, or side effects, leaving the agent to infer.

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

Conciseness5/5

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

The description is extremely concise, front-loading the core purpose in one sentence, followed by parameter definitions. No unnecessary words.

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

Completeness3/5

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

The description covers the essential inputs but does not mention output behavior. Since an output schema exists, this is partially mitigated, but the tool's role among many similar siblings suggests a need for 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?

The description adds meaning to both parameters: Z range (1-120) and E units (keV), which are absent from the input schema. This aids correct invocation.

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

Purpose5/5

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

The description explicitly states the tool calculates total cross section using Kissel photoionization in barn/atom, with clear inputs. This differentiates it from siblings like CS_Total or CSb_Total by specifying the Kissel method.

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. With over 100 sibling tools covering various cross-section calculations, explicit when-to-use and when-not-to-use is missing.

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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