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xraylib MCP Server

by tschoonj

GetRadioNuclideDataByName

Retrieve radionuclide data such as atomic number, half-life, and decay modes by specifying the nuclide name.

Instructions

Get radionuclide data by name.

Args: name: Radionuclide name, e.g. "55Fe", "241Am", "109Cd"

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
nameYes

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior2/5

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

Without annotations, the description carries full burden but only states the basic retrieval action. It does not disclose what specific data fields are returned, whether the operation is read-only (implied but not explicit), or any potential side effects. The existence of an output schema is not leveraged in the description.

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 extremely concise at two sentences, with the purpose stated upfront. However, it could be slightly more structured (e.g., separate sections for purpose and parameter) without adding length.

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 large set of sibling tools (many similar 'Get...' functions), the description lacks completeness. It does not explain what 'radionuclide data' entails or how it compares to other data retrieval tools. The presence of an output schema reduces the need to describe returns, but the description should at least hint at the type of data (e.g., half-life, decay modes).

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 only parameter 'name' is described with examples ('55Fe', '241Am', '109Cd'), which adds concrete value beyond the schema's generic title. However, schema description coverage is 0%, and the description does not explain the expected format, encoding, or constraints (e.g., case sensitivity).

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

Purpose3/5

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

The description 'Get radionuclide data by name' largely restates the tool name, adding only examples like '55Fe'. It is clear but fails to distinguish from sibling tools such as GetRadioNuclideDataByIndex or GetRadioNuclideDataList, which serve similar purposes with different lookup methods.

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 is provided on when to use this tool over alternatives. There is no mention of prerequisites, context, or scenarios where this lookup is preferred over sibling tools, leaving the agent to guess the intended usage.

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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