Ei-9 Properties of Radiation Ei-9
Aim
To demonstrate the penetrating power of Alpha, Beta and Gamma-rays.
Apparatus
- Geiger tube
- Sr90 source
- Retort stand
- Paper
- Aluminium foil
- Lead blocks
Description
A commercial smoke alarm contains a weak Americium source which emits alpha particles. A single sheet of paper interposed between the source and detector reduces the count rate dramatically showing the weak penetrating power of alpha particles.
A Cs137 source emits both beta particles and gamma rays.
The same sheet of paper has little effect on these emissions but a thin sheet of aluminium will stop the beta particles. These particles may be shown to be electrons by deflecting them with a strong magnetic field. The gamma rays require a substantial thickness of lead to reduce the count rate.