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The following experiments explore the world of nuclear radiation, from the tiny particles emitted by unstable atoms to the powerful rays that penetrate matter. By observing alpha, beta, and gamma radiation, their interactions with magnetic fields, matter, and photographic film, you’ll uncover fundamental principles like radioactive decay, particle behavior, and the inverse square law.
Measure how beta radiation intensity decreases with distance to explore the inverse square law, a key principle in understanding how radiation spreads.
Alpha particles are small but highly energetic particles emitted from unstable atoms. In this experiment, you'll investigate how far alpha particles can travel through matter before losing their energy and coming to a stop.
Gamma rays are high-energy electromagnetic waves that can penetrate matter far more effectively than visible light. In this experiment using Cesium-137, you'll measure how gamma radiation intensity changes with distance to test the validity of the inverse square law.
Different types of radiation interact with matter in different ways. In this activity, you will compare the penetrating abilities of alpha, beta, and gamma radiation by observing how each is blocked by various materials. Discover which type is the most penetrating and why.
In this experiment, you'll use radiation-sensitive film to detect beta particles and visualize their paths. As the particles strike the film, they create a visible pattern, allowing you to observe the effects of radiation much like a photograph captures light.
Radioactive decay is a natural process in which unstable atoms transform into more stable forms. In this experiment, you'll observe Cesium-137 decay into Barium-137 and measure the moment when Barium-137 emits gamma radiation before reaching a stable state. This activity demonstrates the concept of nuclear transmutation and the release of energy during decay.
In this experiment, you'll explore how beta particles behave in a magnetic field. By observing the curvature of their paths, you'll learn how charged particles respond to magnetic forces and gain insight into their speed, charge, and direction of motion.
Alpha particles are not visible to the naked eye, but when passing through a cloud chamber, they ionize vapor to create visible trails. By observing these tracks, you can study the motion and behavior of alpha radiation in real time.
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