Fine structure of the alpha spectrum of Am-241 with MCA/ alpha spectroscopy
Article No: P2522215
The alpha-spectrum of an open 241-Am-emitter is measured with a semiconductor a-detector. In connection with a multi channel analyzer the main parts of the spectrum are investigated. Benefits Alpha spectroscopy of the fine structure of alpha emitting Americium to understand the technique within a practical course The combination of multichannel analyzer (MCA), preamplifier and alpha detector leads to precise results. Transparent glass container with perfect visibility of the whole setup and good vacuum conditions, used in several experiments Tasks The spectrum of an uncovered 241-Am-emitter is recorded with the multi channel analyzer. The energies of the two peaks preceding the principal peak are calculated. The principal peak, corresponding to a particle energy of 5.486 MeV, is used for calibration purposes. The resolution capacity of the measurement layout is measured from the half-life width of the principal peak. Learning objectives Energy level diagram (decay diagram) Transition probability Excited nuclear states γ-emission Connection between the fine structure of the α-spectrum and the accompanying γ-spectrum