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Relatively small discrepancies between Apollo 17 lunar neutron probe experiment (LNPE) data and theoretical calculations by Lingenfelter, Canfield, and Hampel in the effect of Cd absorption on the neutron density, and in the relative Sm-149 to Gd-157 capture rates reported previously, imply that the true lunar Gd-157 capture rate is about one-half of that derived theoretically.

Whitlockite grains in two Apennine Front KREEP soil fragments contain extremely high densities of fission tracks. A new method is described in which particle tracks are examined in an actinide-poor phase bordering an actinide-rich whitlockite phase. This method clearly distinguishes the fission track contributions from other track sources; e.g., Fe-group cosmic rays, spallation recoils, and dislocations. Observed track excesses, when corrected for U- and Th-related fission sources, are 4-20 times greater than the contribution from spontaneous fission of U-238 (based on an age of 4 b.y.), and probably represent a large and variable contribution from the fission of Pu-244. These fragments may have pre-Imbrium ages, underscoring the importance of KREEP as a constituent of the pre-mare lunar crust. Track excesses are not correlated with the U or Th contents of the whitlockite grains. This behavior suggests that Pu fractionates differently from U and Th in lunar igneous KREEP.

An in situ measurement of the lunar neutron density from 20 to 400 g/sq cm depth between the lunar surface was made by the Apollo 17 Lunar Neutron Probe Experiment using particle tracks produced by the B10(n, alpha)Li7 reaction. Both the absolute magnitude and depth profile of the neutron density are in good agreement with past theoretical calculations. The effect of cadmium absorption on the neutron density and in the relative Sm149 to Gd157 capture rates obtained experimentally implies that the true lunar Gd157 capture rate is about one half of that calculated theoretically.