Presenter(s)

    Timothy T. Gorman, Kevan A. Kramb

    Comments

    This poster reflects research conducted as part of a course project designed to give students experience in the research process.

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    Description

    A cloud chamber is a particle detector capable of detecting charged atomic particles, such as alpha and beta particles. These charged particles interact with a mixture of supersaturated isopropyl alcohol vapor and ionize it. The resulting ions act as condensation nuclei or cloud seeds, which form a cloud trail or mist in the wake of a particle. In the presence of a constant magnetic field, charged particles will bend according to the Lorentz force law. Depending on the curvature of the particles path, an experimental mass can be calculated. The constant magnetic field was achieved through a plexiglass board with like oriented neodymium button magnets. The supersaturated vapor was created through cooling isopropyl alcohol with dry ice. A radioactive lead-210 source was used to provide the alpha and beta particles measured.

    Publication Date

    4-18-2012

    Project Designation

    Course Project

    Primary Advisor

    Mohamed Ahoujja

    Primary Advisor's Department

    Physics

    Keywords

    Stander Symposium project

    Research exercise: Measuring Alpha-particle Charge to Mass Ratio using a Cloud Chamber

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