Technical data

Alpha energies of different sources with MCA

Article no: P2522015

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Principle

An alpha-spectrometer, consisting of a photodetector, a preamplifier, a pulse height analyser and a recording device for registration of the spectra is calibrated by means of an open alpha-emitter of known alpha energy (241-Am). The energy spectrum of a radium source which is in equilibrium with its decay products, is recorded and evaluated. The alpha-energies found in this way are allocated to the corresponding nuclides of the radium decay series.

Benefits

Experience the essence of the Nobel Prizes: Rutherford (1908)
The combination of multichannel analyzer (MCA), preamplifier and alphadetector leads to precise results
No vacuum required
MCA and preamplifier can be used in many other experiments

Tasks

The Alpha-spectrum of the 226-Ra is recorded with multichannel analyzer.
The calibration spectrum of the open 241-Am alpha-emitter is recorded at the same settings.
The alpha-energies corresponding to the individual peaks of the alpha spectrum of the radium are calculated and compared to the values in the literature.

Learning objectives

Decay series
Radioactive equilibrium
Isotopic properties
Decay energy
Particle energy
Potential well model of the atomic nucleus
Tunnel effect
Geiger-Nuttal law
Semiconductor
Barrier layer

Scope of delivery

Radioactive source Am-241, 74 kBq	09047-51	1
Radioactive source Ra-226, max. 4 kBq	09041-00	1
Pre-amplifier for alpha detector	09100-10	1
Screened cable, BNC, l = 1 m	07542-11	1
Screened cable, BNC, l 250 mm	07542-10	1
PHYWE Multichannel Analyser (MCA)	13727-99	1
measure Software multi channel analyser	14452-61	1
Alpha and Photodetector	09099-00	1
Base plate for radioactivity	09200-00	1
Source holder on fixing magnet	09202-00	1
Counter tube holder on fixating magnet	09201-00	1