\(\gamma \)-ray angular correlations, distributions and linear polarization in tracking arrays

With \(\gamma \)-ray tracking arrays, the angular correlation and, especially, the linear polarization of \(\gamma \) rays can be measured with high precision. However, because of the complexity of these spectrometers, measuring angular distributions is more involved. The techniques and associated formalisms were developed and established in the 1950s. The experimental setups of that era were relatively simple when compared to the advanced \(\gamma \)-ray tracking arrays available today. This paper aims to review and refine these techniques, unify the nomenclatures and, specifically, adapt them for use with the newest tracking arrays. In addition, new methods for producing the required response functions for these arrays are introduced.